FG Orders Evacuation Of Nigerians in Syria

On Monday Sept 2nd, 2013, the Nigerian Federal government ordered the immediate evacuation of Nigerian citizens in Syria following a series of chemical weapon attacks in the crisis-ridden country.

This was made known by Martin Uhoimoibhi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Martin said the Federal Government has ordered embassy staffs to ensure the safety of Nigerians in Syria in case of any military action by the US & it’s allies.

“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.” - Uhoimoibhi told reporters

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.”