As geopolitical tensions continue to escalate in the Middle East, the Nigerian government has assured its citizens that no Nigerian has been abandoned in the Islamic Republic of Iran, contrary to misleading reports circulating on social media.
In a statement released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Saturday, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, clarified that the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran remains operational, and its mission staff are actively working—albeit remotely—to protect Nigerian lives amid ongoing security concerns.
The social media claims had suggested that the embassy had shut down operations and left Nigerian nationals to fend for themselves amid the military confrontation between Iran and Israel. The Ministry has firmly dismissed these claims as false, unfounded, and irresponsible.
“The Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran remains operational and fully committed to the welfare and safety of all Nigerian nationals in Iran,” Tuggar stated.
A Humanitarian Response and International Collaboration
Despite disruptions caused by continued bombings and unstable conditions in Tehran, Nigerian diplomatic staff have transitioned to remote operations while keeping communication lines open with citizens and international partners.
In a significant development, the Nigerian government has entered into advanced discussions with the Government of the Republic of Armenia to facilitate a safe and dignified evacuation of Nigerian citizens via Yerevan, Armenia’s capital.
This cross-border collaboration highlights the power of diplomacy and shared humanity in moments of crisis.
“This compassionate gesture by Armenia underscores the importance of international solidarity and humanitarian cooperation,” the Ministry noted, extending appreciation for Armenia’s willingness to offer safe passage to Nigerians in distress.
A recent meeting between Nigeria’s Charge d’Affaires in Iran, Dr. Abdulrasheed Omar Lawal, and Mr. Levon Petrosyan, Acting Director for Middle East and Africa at Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, further strengthened this life-saving cooperation.
Support Systems for Nigerians on the Ground
The Embassy has provided emergency contacts, urging Nigerians in Iran to stay in touch through designated coordinators across three arranged locations and to download the local Eitaa messaging app for real-time updates.
Nigerians in Iran needing assistance can reach the embassy via:
Mr. Esson Anzaku: +989393216872
Mr. Abutalib: +989024199018, +989393216872
Emails: nigeria.tehran@mfa.gov.ng, anzakuesson02@gmail.com, lawshed@yahoo.com
“The Ministry remains vigilant and continues to take all necessary measures to safeguard the interests of Nigerians worldwide,” the statement concluded.
