By Mercy Peter
The Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has Clarified reports suggesting that it has not received any distress calls from Nigerians stranded in the Middle East following the escalating crisis in the region.
In a statement issued on March 3, 2026, the Director of Media, Public Relations and Protocols, Mr. Abdur-Rahman Balogun, deny ever making the statement attributed to him claiming that no Nigerians had reached out to the Commission.
He explained that contrary to the circulating claim, the Commission has received inquiries from some Nigerians in Qatar, the United Arab Emirates and Iran regarding possible evacuation plans should the situation deteriorate.
Balogun noted that while the calls received were largely inquiries about preparedness and contingency arrangements, the Federal Government remains alert and engaged on the matter.
He disclosed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently working with relevant government agencies to determine appropriate measures in response to the evolving situation.
“The Ministry is coordinating efforts and appealing to Nigerians in the affected countries to strictly adhere to travel advisories already issued,” he stated.
“The attention of the Commission has been drawn to a statement credited to the Commission’s spokesman that there are no distress calls from Nigerians stranded in the Middle East due to the ongoing crisis. I never issued such statement,” Balogun said.
“Nigerians in the affected countries should rest assured that the Federal Government is monitoring the situation and would take necessary steps to ensure no Nigerian life is endangered,” he added.
The Commission urged Nigerians residing in countries affected by the crisis to remain calm, follow official guidance, and contact the emergency numbers provided by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs where necessary.
Reassuring citizens abroad, Balogun stressed that the Federal Government is closely monitoring developments in the region and will take necessary steps to safeguard Nigerian lives and interests.
