The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the recent preemptive military strike by the State of Israel on the Islamic Republic of Iran, warning that the escalating hostilities pose a grave threat to regional and global peace.
In a statement issued on Saturday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed “grave concern” over the intensifying conflict marked by sustained missile and aerial exchanges between Israel and Iran.
“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,” the statement said.
The federal government is calling for an “immediate cessation of hostilities” and is urging both nations to exercise “utmost restraint” to avoid a broader Middle East crisis. Nigeria warned that the 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.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, the statement called on the international community—especially the United Nations Security Council—to intensify diplomatic efforts and create a platform for constructive dialogue between the warring parties.
“We reiterate that military action is not a substitute for negotiation,” the statement continued. “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 Israeli strike on Iran, which occurred earlier this week, is believed to have targeted suspected military sites near Tehran, provoking a retaliatory barrage from Iranian forces. Casualties have been reported on both sides, with fears that the conflict could further destabilize the already volatile Middle East.
