Nigerian Set To Evacuate Citizens In Syria

The Nigerian embassy in Syria has been  directed to start evacuating Nigerians in the country, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Martin Uhoimoibhi, broke the news yesterday to reporters in Abuja after a training for mid-level Swiss diplomats.

He said the embassy had been directed to ensure a safe passage for Nigerians in case of any military action by the United States (US) and its allies.

Uhoimoibhi said: “We have asked our embassy to arrange for Nigerians to have a safe passage. In fact, this has been on for years. We do not have many Nigerians there any more. The embassy had since relocated a large chunk of its staff and only a very small number is left. This has been on for, at least, two years. So everyone is ready for the situation as it evolves.”

On whether Nigeria will support military action by the US, he said: “Why ask me the position of the Nigerian military? That is not mine to determine. We are very proud members of the United Nations (UN) and I am sure Nigeria’s action will be determined by the UN.”