The government of Iran has assured that Nigerian citizens residing in the country remain safe despite the escalating tensions in the Middle East linked to the ongoing standoff involving United States, Israel and Iran.
Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja, gave the assurance on Thursday during a press briefing in Abuja while addressing recent developments surrounding the conflict.
Raja said there had been no reports of harm to Nigerians living in major Iranian cities, including Tehran and Qom, since hostilities escalated in the region.
According to the envoy, the safety of foreign nationals remains a top priority for the Iranian authorities.
“The safety of foreign residents, including Nigerians, is a priority for the Islamic Republic of Iran,” he said.
“Our defensive actions are targeted strictly at military installations and do not threaten civilians or foreign nationals.”
The ambassador explained that Iran’s response to the ongoing crisis was limited to defensive actions aimed at safeguarding its sovereignty and protecting its citizens.
He added that the country’s actions were guided by international law, particularly the principle of self defence as provided under Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
Raja also noted that the latest escalation occurred during a period of cultural and religious significance in Iran, which includes the holy month of Ramadan and the Iranian New Year celebration known as Nowruz.
Despite the situation, he maintained that the well being and security of foreign residents had not been affected.
The ambassador further highlighted the long standing diplomatic and economic relations between Iran and Nigeria, stressing that cooperation between both countries would continue in sectors such as energy, agriculture, education and trade.
He urged Nigerians living abroad to remain calm and follow official directives, noting that there was no immediate threat to their safety.
Raja also called on the international community to support efforts aimed at maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East while recognising Iran’s right to defend its territory and people.
The assurance came as the Nigerian government said it was closely monitoring developments in the region and had issued travel advisories for citizens in Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries.
Meanwhile, the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission said it was working with relevant authorities to provide guidance and support for Nigerians currently residing in the affected region.
