Sat Oct 05 21:30:54 UTC 2024: ## Nigeria Evacuates Hundreds from Lebanon Amidst Israel-Hezbollah Conflict
**Beirut, Lebanon:** The Nigerian Embassy in Beirut has registered approximately 500 Nigerians for evacuation amidst the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah. However, an estimated 2,000 Nigerians remain in Lebanon, many reluctant to return home despite the embassy’s efforts to persuade them.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe, confirmed these figures, stating that the government is working tirelessly to ensure the safety of all its citizens. “Even though most of them have not indicated a willingness to return home despite the persuasion by our embassy, we will continue to do everything to ensure the safety of our citizens,” the statement read.
In response to the deteriorating security situation, the Nigerian government has activated emergency evacuation protocols. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the National Emergency Management Agency and other relevant agencies, is coordinating the evacuation process.
The Embassy in Beirut has issued multiple advisories, urging Nigerians to stay indoors and follow local authorities’ instructions. They have also appealed to those who have not registered with the Embassy to do so via email.
A C-130 aircraft or other available flights are being arranged to transport Nigerians back home. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reassured the public that no Nigerian life has been lost in the conflict and has been working closely with community leaders to relocate citizens from the conflict zone to Beirut.
Despite the ongoing efforts, officials have expressed concern over the hesitancy of some Nigerians to leave, reaffirming that the government remains dedicated to ensuring their safety.
This comes after Iran launched a barrage of missiles at Israel in response to the killings of Iran-backed militant leaders. The Israel Defence Forces intercepted 180 ballistic missiles launched by Iran on Tuesday.
The Nigerian government urges all citizens in Lebanon to cooperate with the evacuation process, warning that the conflict may escalate further.
First Piper 