The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has alerted travellers to disruptions affecting flights to multiple Middle East destinations, following airspace closures triggered by recent US and Israeli military strikes on Iran.
In a statement shared on its official social media accounts on Saturday, FAAN confirmed that ongoing closures are already impacting flight operations.
“The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria wishes to inform the travelling public that ongoing airspace closures in parts of the Middle East are currently impacting flight operations to and from the region,” the statement read.
The authority further explained that several airlines, including Emirates and Qatar Airways, have had flights cancelled or delayed. Passengers affected by the disruptions are urged to contact their carriers directly for the latest flight updates, rebooking options, and guidance.
“FAAN continues to monitor the situation in collaboration with relevant aviation authorities and airline operators and will provide updates as necessary. We regret the inconvenience and appreciate the understanding and cooperation of the travelling public,” the release added.
READ ALSO:
- Madam Saje Ends Heated Rift Between Toyin Abraham, Funke Akindele
- DSS Takes Custody Of El-Rufai After Court Proceedings, Ruling Fixed For April 14
- Sterling Bank Marks One Year Of Zero Transfer Fees, Returns N1.6bn To Customers
- Lagos CP Bans Taskforce From Traffic Enforcement Operations
- “Nothing I Do Is Ever Right” — Busola Oke Laments Constant Criticism
The announcement follows reports of airstrikes on Iranian cities on Saturday, causing explosions and smoke plumes over Tehran. In response, several countries—including Iran, Iraq, Israel, Syria, Kuwait, and the UAE—have announced full or partial airspace closures.
International carriers such as Air France, Lufthansa, Turkish Airlines, and Air India have also suspended or cancelled flights to parts of the region.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a security advisory for Nigerians in Iran and neighbouring Gulf countries, citing escalating hostilities. In a statement, spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa said the ministry was “closely monitoring the evolving and volatile situation in the Middle East, specifically regarding the military action reportedly undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran and subsequent retaliatory actions by Iran on targets in some Gulf countries.”
The ministry advised Nigerians in affected areas to remain vigilant, avoid strategic or military sites, limit non-essential travel, and comply with local authorities’ directives. Nigerian embassies in Tehran, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia are on high alert to provide consular support.
“The Federal Government reiterated that the safety and well-being of Nigerian citizens abroad remains its top priority and called on parties involved in the conflict to de-escalate tensions in the interest of global peace,” the statement concluded.