Date: March 7, 2026 l Reporter: Mensah
The Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, has assured that Nigerian citizens currently living in Iran remain safe despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, the envoy stated that there have been no reports of casualties or injuries involving Nigerians residing in the country since hostilities intensified.
“Your citizens in Iran are safe and secure,” the ambassador said, noting that Nigerians living in major Iranian cities such as Tehran and Qom have not been harmed despite the ongoing military tensions in the region.
The envoy emphasized that the safety of foreign nationals remains a priority for the Iranian government and that the current military actions are directed at defensive targets rather than civilian populations or foreign residents.
He also highlighted the long-standing diplomatic relationship between Iran and Nigeria, which spans more than five decades and includes cooperation in areas such as energy, agriculture, education, trade, and industry.
The reassurance comes amid growing global concern over the expanding conflict in the Middle East, which has already led to missile attacks, airspace disruptions, and rising oil prices across the region.
Meanwhile, Nigerian authorities and the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM) have said they are closely monitoring the situation while maintaining contact with citizens living in Iran and neighboring countries.
Officials have also advised Nigerians abroad to remain calm and follow official guidance as developments continue to unfold across the Middle East.