The Federal Government of Nigeria has begun evacuating Nigerian citizens from Iran amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The operation is focused on helping willing Nigerians exit the country safely by escorting them across the Armenian border where embassy officials are providing support.

The evacuation was confirmed by Abike Dabiri‑Erewa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), who shared details of the operation on her X account. She explained that officials from the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran are coordinating safe passage for citizens who wish to leave, working closely with Armenian authorities to ensure a secure route out of Iran.

Dabiri‑Erewa reassured Nigerians that, at the time of the announcement, no Nigerian in Iran has been harmed by the ongoing conflict. She added that embassy staff remain stationed at the border to receive and assist evacuees once they arrive.

The evacuation effort comes as tensions in the Middle East have risen sharply following coordinated military action involving major global powers. With airspace currently considered unsafe for flights, ground evacuation via the Armenia border has become a key option for those seeking to leave Iran.

Government officials have also emphasised that they are closely monitoring the evolving situation and prepared to take further action to protect Nigerian citizens abroad if necessary.