'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER — The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has issued a strong advisory to Nigerians living in Lebanon, urging them to evacuate or relocate to safer areas in the wake of escalating Israeli attacks on Hezbollah and other locations in the country. The warning comes as tensions in the region continue to rise, raising concerns about the safety of Nigerian nationals residing in Lebanon.
In a statement released by NiDCOM, Director of Media, Public Relations, and Protocols, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, advised Nigerians to take advantage of the ongoing availability of commercial flights to leave Lebanon while it is still possible. The Commission is particularly worried about the increasing threat posed by the conflict, which could severely impact areas where Nigerians live.
While information from the Nigerian community in Lebanon suggests that most Nigerians have already moved out of the conflict-ridden southern part of the country, NiDCOM advises all citizens to remain vigilant. "We hereby advise them to keep safe until the ceasefire is in place," the statement said, underscoring the importance of continued caution even for those who have relocated.
NiDCOM reassured the public that, as of now, no Nigerian in Lebanon has been harmed or injured as a result of the conflict. However, the advisory emphasized the need for Nigerians to maintain close communication with the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon for updates and guidance on how best to protect themselves.
The Commission reiterated that the safety and welfare of Nigerians in Lebanon remain a top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. "Their welfare and safety is of utmost concern to President Tinubu," the statement added, encouraging Nigerian citizens to heed the warning and take necessary precautions as the conflict continues to unfold.
Nigerians in Lebanon are advised to remain informed about the situation on the ground and promptly act on any new safety guidelines issued by local authorities or the Nigerian Embassy in Beirut.