The Federal Government on Wednesday urged Nigerians living in Lebanon to leave the country immediately, following escalating violence between Israeli forces and Hezbollah.

This call came through a statement issued by the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), signed by its spokesperson, Abdur-Rahman Balogun.

NIDCOM highlighted the intensifying situation in Lebanon, where Israeli airstrikes have targeted Hezbollah-controlled areas in Beirut and southern Lebanon.

Although many Nigerians in Lebanon have already moved away from the high-risk southern region and are reportedly safe, the commission stressed the importance of remaining cautious.

The statement urged Nigerian citizens to stay vigilant until a ceasefire is established.

In the advisory, NIDCOM emphasized that Nigerians still have an opportunity to leave the country while commercial flights are operational.

The commission also advised citizens to maintain close communication with the Nigerian Embassy in Lebanon for guidance and support during this period of instability.

“The safety and well-being of Nigerians in Lebanon is of top priority for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement assured.

In recent days, the Israeli military has escalated its offensive in Lebanon, focusing on Hezbollah positions.

The conflict has claimed the lives of over 600 people, including the long-time Hezbollah leader, Hassan Nasrallah.

The violence has also displaced hundreds of thousands of residents, marking a significant deterioration in the region’s security.

Alongside airstrikes, Israel has launched a ground operation in southern Lebanon, further escalating the conflict and raising concerns for the safety of foreign nationals, including Nigerians.