By Fortune Abang
The Federal Government says it has begun preparations to evacuate Nigerians in Lebanon back to Nigeria.
Amb. Eche Abu-Obe, Spokesperson Ministry of Foreign Affairs, disclosed this in a statement on Friday in Abuja, in view of the Israel-Hezbollah conflict.
“Further to the deteriorating situation in Lebanon over the Israel-Hezbollah conflict, the government has commenced preparations for evacuation of Nigerians in Lebanon back to Nigeria.
“The Government of Nigeria has taken measures to ensure the protection and safety of Nigerian nationals in the country.
“The Embassy of Nigeria in Lebanon issued regular advisories to the Nigerian community with safety instructions and in August, advised compatriots to strongly consider voluntary evacuation, while the options of commercial flights remained available.
“Nigerian nationals in the South of Lebanon have also been evacuated to Beirut and other safer areas in collaboration with the leadership of the Nigerian community.’’
The spokesperson said it had become pertinent to mention that no Nigerian life has so far been lost since the beginning of the conflict.
“The ministry wishes to reassure Nigerians that the Federal Government is engaging with relevant stakeholders and remains committed to the protection and safety of Nigerian nationals.
“Government is making preparations to evacuate them back home,” Abu-Obe said. (NAN)
