Our foreign policy is anchored on dialogue, peaceful resolution of conflicts and respect for international law.
“Nigeria has consistently urged all parties involved in the crisis to exercise restraint and pursue diplomatic engagement in line with the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions,” Ebienfa said.
He explained that Nigerian embassies across the region, including those in Tehran, Tel Aviv, Qatar, Beirut, Kuwait, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, have been placed on high alert to closely monitor developments and provide support to Nigerian nationals where necessary.
Speaking on the safety of Nigerians in the Gulf region, Ebienfa noted that thousands of Nigerians worked across various sectors, including construction, healthcare, aviation, oil and gas, and domestic services in the affected countries.
“While the situation remains under close watch, there have been no confirmed reports of Nigerians directly affected by the tensions so far,” he also said.
Ebienfa added that Nigeria relied on a combination of diplomatic intelligence, host country advisories and international monitoring systems to anticipate potential threats to its citizens abroad.
The ministry, however, advised Nigerians residing in the Gulf region to remain vigilant, adhere strictly to security advisories issued by local authorities, maintain regular contact with Nigerian embassies and ensure their travel and identity documents remain valid.
He reassured that the Nigerian government remains committed to protecting its citizens wherever they may be, while continuing to support diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the Gulf.
“The unfolding crisis shows that foreign policy decisions go beyond diplomatic negotiations, as they directly affect Nigerians working abroad, their families at home and the nation’s global standing.
“We will continue to pursue diplomacy while ensuring that the welfare and safety of its citizens remain a top priority as tensions persist in the Gulf region,” he further said.
The Sun
