The Federal Government has dismissed reports circulating in the media that it abandoned Nigerian citizens in Iran.
Authorities also described as misleading the claim that officials at the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran had departed the country.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Federal Government maintained that the reports were entirely false.
The statement, signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, clarified that while recent bombings in Tehran had disrupted normal work schedules, embassy staff were continuing operations remotely.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to misleading and unfounded reports circulating on social media and certain news platforms that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran, Iran, has abandoned Nigerian nationals and departed the country due to the ongoing crisis with Israel. “The Ministry categorically debunks these allegations and assures the public, particularly Nigerian citizens in Iran, that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran remains operational and committed to the welfare and safety of all Nigerian nationals in Iran.
The consistent bombing in Tehran has, however, disrupted normal work schedules and forced staff to work remotely.
“Given this unfortunate development, the Embassy is actively engaging with the Government of Armenia to grant access for the evacuation of Nigerians via Yerevan.”
The Ministry also urged Nigerians in Iran who require assistance to reach out directly to the Embassy via its official emergency contact channels.
Additionally, the Embassy advised members of the Nigerian community in Iran to download the local messaging app Eitaa and join the Nigerian group to receive regular updates.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor the situation and take all necessary steps to safeguard the interests of Nigerians abroad.
