The Tinubu Administration has strongly condemned the escalating military confrontation between Iran and Israel, calling for an immediate end to hostilities that have significantly heightened tensions in the Middle East.
In a statement released Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed grave concern over the deteriorating security situation and urged both nations to exercise maximum restraint to prevent further escalation.
The Nigerian government’s intervention comes amid reports of intensified military exchanges between the two nations, with international observers warning of potential regional implications.
“The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran that has led to an escalation of hostilities between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the State of Israel, marked by sustained missile and aerial exchanges across both territories,” Ebienfa stated.
The ministry emphasized that the ongoing cycle of retaliation poses significant risks beyond the immediate parties involved. “Nigeria expresses its grave concern and calls for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urges both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace,” the statement continued.
The government warned that the escalating conflict threatens broader regional stability and could have far-reaching consequences for international security and economic development. “The continued cycle of retaliation not only endangers civilian lives but threatens to plunge the broader Middle East into further instability, with implications for international security and economic development,” Ebienfa explained.
Nigeria’s position reflects its longstanding commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and diplomatic engagement. The country stressed that military confrontation cannot substitute for meaningful dialogue and negotiation between the conflicting parties.
“Military action is not a substitute for negotiation,” the statement emphasized, adding that “enduring peace must be built on diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.”
The Federal Government called on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify mediation efforts and provide platforms for constructive engagement between Iran and Israel.
“As a nation deeply committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria calls on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation,” the statement declared.
The ministry urged global leaders to take decisive action to prevent further escalation. “We urge the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and to provide a platform for constructive engagement,” Ebienfa added.
Nigeria pledged its support for international efforts aimed at restoring calm and promoting sustainable peace in the region. “The path to lasting peace lies in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law. Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region,” the statement concluded.
The Nigerian government’s statement reflects growing international concern about the potential for the conflict to spread throughout the Middle East, with multiple countries and international organizations calling for immediate de-escalation and return to diplomatic channels.
The escalation has prompted widespread international responses, with various nations and multilateral bodies expressing concern about the implications for regional stability and global security. Nigeria’s call for restraint aligns with similar appeals from other international partners seeking to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The Federal Government’s intervention underscores Nigeria’s role as a significant diplomatic voice in international affairs and its commitment to promoting peaceful resolution of conflicts through multilateral engagement and dialogue.
