As the war involving the United States, Israel and Iran intensifies, reports from the region indicate worsening security conditions. Thousands of Nigerian students, traders and visitors are now caught in the unfolding crisis, facing the difficult choice of waiting out the conflict or attempting to leave. In such circumstances, the priority must shift from protecting careers or businesses to preserving lives.

For Nigerians still in Iran and other affected Middle Eastern countries, the reality is that they are no longer in a normal civil environment but in an active combat zone. Foreign nationals are usually advised to leave immediately when political tensions begin escalating into open conflict. However, for those who could not exit earlier, adopting survival measures may help them navigate the dangerous days ahead.

Experts warn that people living near strategic installations such as government ministries, military bases, refineries, telecommunications centres and major ports should relocate immediately. These sites are prime targets in modern warfare, and staying within a five-kilometre radius of them significantly increases the risk of being caught in airstrikes. Safer alternatives include purely residential suburbs or rural communities far from strategic infrastructure.

Communication is also becoming increasingly difficult. Authorities in Iran have reportedly restricted internet access, making social media platforms such as WhatsApp, TikTok and Telegram unreliable. Nigerians in the country are therefore advised to establish physical meeting points with trusted contacts or other foreign nationals in case digital communication fails.

Essential documents must be kept close at all times. Passports, yellow cards and residence permits should be stored in waterproof protection and carried everywhere. In conflict zones, identity documents can help prevent foreigners from being mistaken for combatants during security checks or military operations.

Another major concern is the collapse of Iran’s currency, the Rial, which has reportedly lost significant value as the conflict deepens. Possessing stable foreign currencies such as the United States dollar or the euro may be crucial for securing transportation or passage toward safer locations, especially when formal systems break down.

Air travel may not be an option as many international airports are likely to be shut down or converted for military operations. As a result, land routes through neighbouring countries such as Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan could become the only viable escape paths for civilians trying to leave the conflict zone.

Observers are urging the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to intensify efforts to assist citizens in the region by providing up-to-date information about safe border crossings and areas where Nigerian consular officials are present. Nigerians in Iran are also encouraged to immediately register their locations with the Nigerian Embassy in Tehran so they can be contacted quickly if evacuation plans are initiated.

The Federal Government is equally being urged to consider arranging emergency charter flights from neighbouring countries once evacuees are able to cross the borders.

For now, the advice to Nigerians trapped in the conflict zone remains simple but critical: stay low, avoid unnecessary movement, and prioritise safety until a clear evacuation path becomes available.