The Federal Government has raised concerns over the reluctance of many Nigerians residing in Lebanon to return home, despite the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, revealed that although there are over 2,000 Nigerians in Lebanon, only about 500 have registered for evacuation.
“Even though most of them have not indicated a willingness to return home in spite of the persuasion by our embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens,” Abu-Obe said.
The Israeli–Hezbollah conflict has intensified, with Israeli airstrikes targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut and southern Lebanon, the epicentre of the conflict.
Over 600 deaths have been reported, including Hezbollah’s leader, Hassan Nasrallah, while Israel has launched a ground invasion in southern Lebanon.
In response, the Nigerian government has activated emergency protocols and is working with agencies such as the National Emergency Management Agency, the Department of State Services, and the Nigerian Immigration Service to facilitate a smooth evacuation process.
Arrangements are being made to deploy a C-130 aircraft or any other available flights to evacuate Nigerians from Beirut.
The ministry also urged those who have not yet registered with the Nigerian Embassy to do so immediately.
“The Nigerian government urges all citizens living in Lebanon not to resist evacuation because the ongoing conflict may escalate,” the statement added.
While no Nigerian lives have been lost, the ministry advised Nigerians in Lebanon to remain indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions.
The government expressed appreciation to the international community for its understanding and assured that the situation would be closely monitored to ensure the safety of Nigerian citizens in Lebanon.
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