The Federal Government has debunked the news making the rounds that it abandoned its citizens in Iran.
Nigerian authorities also described as misleading the report that officials at the embassy in Tehran had departed.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement said there was no truth in the claims.
The statement, which was signed by the ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the bombing of Tehran only disrupted normal work schedules and forced staff to work remotely.
The statement reads: “The attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has been drawn to misleading and unfounded reports circulating on social media and certain news platforms that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran, Iran, has abandoned Nigerian nationals and departed the country due to the ongoing crisis with Israel.
“The Ministry categorically debunks these allegations and assures the public, particularly Nigerian citizens in Iran, that the Embassy of Nigeria in Tehran remains operational and committed to the welfare and safety of all Nigerian nationals in Iran. The consistent bombing in Tehran has, however, disrupted normal work schedules and forced staff to work remotely.
“Given this unfortunate development, the Embassy is actively engaging with the Government of Armenia to grant access for the evacuation of Nigerians via Yerevan.”
Moreover, Nigerians in Iran requiring assistance are encouraged to contact the Embassy directly through its official emergency contacts:
Mr. Esson Anzaku +989393216872 and Abutalib +989024199018 +989393216872, and emails: Nigeria.tehran@mfa.gov.ng anzakuesson02@gmail.com and lawshed@yahoo.com.
Nigerians in Iran are also advised to contact the various designated coordinators of the Nigerian Community in these three locations as earlier arranged.
The Embassy has also advised members of the Nigerian Community to download the Iranian local messaging app, eitaa, and join the Nigerian group for regular updates
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and will continue to take all necessary measures to safeguard the interests of Nigerians worldwide.
