Nigerians residing in Israel and Iran have found themselves trapped in underground shelters, pleading for urgent government intervention as missile exchanges between the two countries intensify. Many have criticized the Nigerian authorities for not acting swiftly enough, especially as other nations have already begun evacuating their citizens to safety.
Toll of the Conflict
The conflict, which erupted after Israel’s Operation Rising Lion targeted Iranian military and nuclear facilities, has claimed at least 264 lives, including 70 women and children. Iran’s response involved launching over 100 missiles at Israeli cities, including Tel Aviv, where most Nigerians reside.
Firsthand Accounts of Fear and Uncertainty
Nigerians in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem describe a life of constant fear, with alarms forcing them into bomb shelters at all hours. “We are in an Israeli bomb shelter and I can’t answer calls right now,” reported Ekene Abaka. Another Nigerian lamented the embassy’s closure, saying, “We ran into a bomb shelter to protect ourselves from missiles coming from Iran.”
Social media videos show Nigerians frantically seeking shelter, sometimes finding doors locked and having to flee elsewhere. The psychological toll is evident as they wait anxiously for the missile threat to subside.
Other Countries Evacuate as Nigerians Wait
While nations like Germany, Greece, and China have already evacuated their citizens, Nigeria’s evacuation process remains incomplete. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has advised citizens to remain vigilant and in contact with embassies, but logistical challenges persist.
Economic and Social Disruption
The Israeli government’s suspension of all activities, including education and commerce, has left Nigerians without income and facing uncertainty about their livelihoods. “We are scared because we don’t even know how we will pay our next rent or feed our children,” said a resident.
Evacuation Plans Hampered by Border Issues
In Iran, about 600 Nigerians await evacuation, with the embassy in Tehran ready to move them to Armenia pending border clearance. The government says it is working closely with Armenian authorities to facilitate the safe passage and eventual airlift of its citizens.