In an update published by Channels TV, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) has released a list of emergency contact numbers for citizens residing in or traveling through conflict-prone areas in the Middle East. The move follows the rapid intensification of hostilities involving Iran, Israel, and allied forces, which has placed thousands of foreign nationals at risk.
The commission, led by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, urged Nigerians in countries like Lebanon, Iran, and parts of the UAE to remain vigilant and maintain close contact with Nigerian missions. The advisory specifically targets those in cities like Beirut, Tel Aviv, and Tehran, where the threat of airstrikes has significantly increased.
NiDCOM emphasized that the hotlines are dedicated to providing consular support and facilitating the evacuation of citizens should the situation deteriorate further. Citizens are encouraged to register their presence with the nearest embassy via digital platforms to ensure they are included in any emergency manifests.
The Vanguard newspaper corroborated this, reporting that “the commission is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to ensure no Nigerian is left behind,” while The Guardian noted that “NiDCOM has advised Nigerians abroad to follow local safety instructions and stay in close touch with embassies.”
Echotitbits take: Diaspora safety is now a top-tier security priority. This proactive move by NiDCOM is essential, but the real challenge will be the logistics of a mass evacuation if the Strait of Hormuz remains blocked. Nigerians abroad should use these lines before a total communications blackout occurs.
Source: Arise – https://www.arise.tv/nigeria-cannot-immediately-evacuate-citizens-as-iran-war-escalates/, March 7, 2026
Photo credit: Arise
