Some Nigerians vow to stay in Lebanon amid FG’s evacuation plans

Some Nigerians have told the federal government they are determined to remain in war-torn Lebanon as the Federal Government intensifies efforts to evacuate its stranded nationals.

The Federal Government confirmed on Saturday that some Nigerians remain unfazed by the ongoing intensified conflict in the country, despite the embassy’s efforts to persuade them to return safely home.

Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, revealed that around 500 out of more than 2,000 Nigerians residing in Lebanon have so far registered for evacuation. He urged all Nigerians in the country to consider the evacuation plans and return home, as the government is concerned about their safety.

“In this regard, the Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced evacuation procedures for Nigerian citizens living in Lebanon, following the escalating conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

“The administration of HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, wishes to reaffirm that the safety and well-being of its citizens remains its top priority. In light of the worsening security situation in Lebanon, the Government has activated emergency protocols to ensure the swift and safe evacuation of our citizens back home as soon as possible.

“The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Presidency, National Emergency Management Agency, Department of State Services, National Intelligence Agency, Nigerian Immigration Service, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, and other relevant bodies, is coordinating the evacuation exercise to ensure the safe return of Nigerians from Lebanon,” the statement read in part.