The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued an urgent advisory, urging all Nigerian citizens currently residing in Lebanon to consider voluntary evacuation and make use of available commercial flights.
This recommendation follows the worsening security situation in Lebanon due to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.
The advisory, tagged as an “Emergency Evacuation of Nigerians in Lebanon Following the Israel-Hezbollah Conflict,” was made public in a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 5, 2024.
The Ministry emphasized that the safety of Nigerian nationals is a top priority, and steps are being taken to ensure that all Nigerians wishing to return home can do so safely.
The Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon has been providing regular updates and advisories to the Nigerian community, advising them to consider leaving while commercial flights are still operating. This move has become necessary given the escalating violence, with reports of airstrikes and rocket fire affecting civilian areas.
Situation Analysis and Key Points
The current security situation in Lebanon has been significantly affected by the resurgence of hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah.
This conflict, rooted in a long-standing territorial and political dispute, has reignited in recent weeks, creating instability in the southern regions of Lebanon and neighboring areas.
The situation has further compounded the country’s existing challenges, which include economic instability and political unrest. For many Nigerians living and working in Lebanon, these developments have led to increased concerns about their safety.
Why Nigerians Are Being Advised to Evacuate
Escalating Conflict: The Israel-Hezbollah conflict has intensified, with rocket fire and airstrikes being reported across various parts of Lebanon. The conflict has not only affected southern Lebanon but has also led to a more volatile security environment in Beirut and other major cities.
Uncertain Safety Conditions: The Nigerian government’s advisory came in response to fears that the conflict could expand, potentially placing foreign nationals, including Nigerians, at risk. The federal government is keen on avoiding any casualties and has therefore advised its citizens to evacuate while commercial flight options are still available.
Regular Advisories from the Embassy: The Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon has been providing continuous safety instructions and updates to the Nigerian community. The embassy has collaborated with local Nigerian community leaders to relocate citizens from more vulnerable regions, particularly in the southern parts of Lebanon, to safer areas such as Beirut.
Ongoing Evacuation Plans: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its spokesperson, assured the public that preparations are ongoing to facilitate the safe return of Nigerians wishing to leave Lebanon. The government is coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth evacuation process for all those affected.
Impact on Nigerians Living in Lebanon
The Nigerian community in Lebanon, estimated to include several thousand people, has been deeply affected by the ongoing conflict. Many Nigerians are employed in various sectors such as domestic work and the service industry, making them particularly vulnerable in a crisis situation like this. The recent violence has prompted many to reconsider their options and, where possible, relocate to safer areas within Lebanon or return to Nigeria.
According to the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), many Nigerians have already moved away from the conflict-prone southern regions to more secure locations in Beirut and surrounding areas.
However, the Commission and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs continue to stress the importance of remaining vigilant and staying in contact with the embassy for any necessary guidance or support.
Preparations and Options for Evacuation
Two Flight Options Available: As disclosed in the government’s advisory, two flight options are currently available for those wishing to return to Nigeria. Citizens are urged to take advantage of these flights while the situation in Lebanon remains volatile. The Ministry has reassured Nigerians that the government is actively working to facilitate their safe return.
Coordination with Nigerian Community Leaders: The Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon has been coordinating with community leaders to ensure that all Nigerians, particularly those in the most affected areas, have access to necessary support and information. This includes guidance on evacuation procedures and relocation to safer zones within Lebanon if immediate evacuation is not possible.
Continued Monitoring and Engagement: The Federal Government, through its various agencies, is continuously monitoring the situation in Lebanon. It has been engaging with international partners and local stakeholders to provide timely updates and ensure that any Nigerian wishing to leave can do so without unnecessary delays.
Safety Measures and Support: In addition to evacuation efforts, the government has put in place measures to support Nigerians who choose to stay. This includes providing up-to-date safety instructions and urging everyone to maintain contact with the embassy for any assistance they might need.
