The Federal Government has said only 500 Nigerians have so far registered to be evacuated from Lebanon following the war between Hezbollah and Israel.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Eche Abu-Obe.
“Currently, about 500 Nigerians have registered with the Mission. However, there are more than 2000 Nigerian citizens residing in the country.
“Even though most of them have not indicated a willingness to return home in spite of the persuasion by our Embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens,” he said.
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He appealed to those who have not registered with the Embassy to do so through Email: [email protected].
While reiterating that the safety and well-being of all citizens remained the priority of the government, he said the government had activated emergency protocols to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of its citizens back home as soon as possible following the deteriorating security situation in Lebanon.
Amb. Abu-Obe said that no life had been lost which he attributed to the “commendable efforts made by the Embassy, working in concert with the leadership of the Nigerian community to evacuate fellow Nigerians from southern Lebanon the epicentre of the conflict to Beirut.”
He disclosed that the government was making arrangements to send a C-130 Aircraft or any other available flight for the evacuation exercise.
“The Nigerian government urges all citizens living In Lebanon not to resist evacuation because the ongoing conflict may escalate and appeals for cooperation with the evacuation process and follow safety guidelines.
“Nigeria appreciates the understanding of the international community and will continue to monitor the situation.” the statement said.
Israeli airstrikes in Lebanon have intensified in the past weeks, targeting Hezbollah positions in Beirut and southern Lebanon.
The conflict has resulted in over 600 deaths, including Hezbollah’s long-time leader, Hassan Nasrallah, and displaced hundreds of thousands.
Israel has also launched a ground invasion in southern Lebanon, marking a major escalation.
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