NIGERIA DENIES ABANDONMENT OF CITIZENS IN IRAN, ANNOUNCES ADVANCED ARRANGEMENTS FOR SAFE PASSAGE VIA ARMENIA
By Raymond Enoch
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has described as false and misleading recent reports on social media and certain news platforms alleging that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran has abandoned Nigerian nationals amidst the ongoing crisis involving Iran and Israel.
In a press release signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ministry categorically debunked the claims and assured the public—particularly Nigerians in Iran—that the Embassy remains operational and committed to their safety and welfare. Although persistent bombing in Tehran has disrupted normal embassy functions, staff continue to work remotely and maintain contact with the Nigerian community.
In a related development, the Ministry announced that arrangements between the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Government of the Republic of Armenia to facilitate the safe evacuation of Nigerians via Yerevan have reached an advanced stage. This assurance followed a meeting between the Charge d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy in Iran, Dr. Abdulrasheed Omar Lawal, and Mr. Levon Petrosyan, Acting Director for Middle East and Africa in Armenia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The Ministry expressed deep appreciation to the Armenian government for its humanitarian gesture, describing it as a testament to international solidarity in times of crisis. Nigeria looks forward to deepening its diplomatic ties with Armenia in the spirit of mutual respect and cooperation.
Nigerians in Iran requiring assistance are advised to contact the Embassy through the following emergency lines:
Mr. Esson Anzaku: +989393216872
Abutalib: +989024199018
Emails: nigeria.tehran@mfa.gov.ng | anzakuesson02@gmail.com | lawshed@yahoo.com
Community members are also encouraged to liaise with designated Nigerian coordinators in the three previously announced locations, and to download the local messaging app eitaa to join the Nigerian group for timely updates.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the rights and welfare of Nigerians abroad and will continue to closely monitor the evolving situation.
