By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L. H. D (Hon.) Updated at 1827 EAT on Wednesday 04th March 2026

Uganda’s Defence Advisor in Turkey, Maj. Gen. Bob Ogiki, has overseen the successful evacuation of Ugandan students from Iran following rising security concerns in the region.

Maj. Gen. Ogiki is pictured with the students at the Mövenpick Hotel in Istanbul after their safe arrival in Turkey. The students were initially organized and evacuated from Tehran aboard buses in a 24-hour journey to the Gurbulak border post on the Turkey–Iran frontier.

Ugandan authorities expressed gratitude to the Government of Turkey for granting the students transit visas, enabling their smooth passage into the country. From the border, the students undertook another 18-hour bus journey to Istanbul, where they were received and accommodated as arrangements for their return home were finalized.

The students are expected to arrive at Entebbe International Airport (EIA) tomorrow, Thursday, 5 March 2026, at 1745 hours aboard Ethiopian Airlines.
Ugandan officials have commended the Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for his leadership in coordinating the evacuation efforts.

Appreciation was also extended to Maj. Gen. Bob Ogiki and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for ensuring the safe extraction and return of the students.

The operation highlights Uganda’s continued commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad, particularly during times of regional instability.