The Nigerian government is alarmed as only 500 of over 2,000 citizens in Lebanon registered for evacuation amid escalating conflict. Despite the embassy's efforts, many remain reluctant to return, preferring Lebanon's conditions over Nigeria's challenges.
The Nigerian government has expressed concern over the low response from its citizens in Lebanon amidst the ongoing conflict between Hezbollah and Israel. So far, only 500 out of over 2,000 Nigerians in Lebanon have registered for evacuation. Despite efforts by the Nigerian embassy to persuade others to return home, many are reluctant. Ambassador Eche Abu-Obe emphasized the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and has activated emergency protocols to facilitate their evacuation. No lives have been reported lost, largely due to successful evacuations from conflict zones.
Nigerians on social media have reacted with a mix of disbelief and sarcasm. Some users noted that many would prefer to stay in a war-torn country than return to Nigeria, citing ongoing issues such as insecurity and poor living conditions. Comments ranged from expressions of concern for the citizens in Lebanon to criticisms of the Nigerian government. One user remarked, "It's really disturbing. When Tinubu and APC have turned Nigeria to hell." Another added, "Imagine a war zone still better than Nigeria."
Several users humorously suggested that the conditions in Lebanon, even amid conflict, seemed more favorable compared to life in Nigeria, highlighting a deep-seated discontent with the current state of affairs.