The Federal Government of Nigeria has called for immediate de-escalation and restraint in the Gulf region following coordinated military strikes by the United States and Israel on Iran.
In the early hours of Saturday, US and Israeli forces carried out missile attacks on Iranian targets, marking a significant escalation in tensions. Iran subsequently launched retaliatory strikes in parts of the Gulf, further heightening concerns about regional stability.
In a statement issued on Saturday, spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, appealed to all parties involved to show maximum restraint and avoid actions that could worsen the crisis.
He underscored the importance of choosing diplomacy over confrontation and urged strict compliance with the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions, particularly regarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
“Nigeria calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that could intensify hostilities, and to prioritise dialogue over confrontation,” Ebienfa stated.
He stressed the necessity of caution in the deployment of lethal force in order to prevent further civilian casualties and uphold established international legal standards. According to the statement, maintaining the current legal framework governing the use of force is critical to protecting vulnerable populations, preserving civilian safety, and sustaining global order.
Ebienfa also reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding foreign policy principles of non-alignment, multilateral cooperation, and constructive engagement. He pledged Abuja’s support for renewed diplomatic initiatives within recognised international and regional platforms aimed at resolving the unfolding crisis.
The ministry welcomed confidence-building measures, mediation efforts, and open dialogue among all stakeholders, encouraging a peaceful path forward grounded in collective security and shared prosperity.
“The Government of Nigeria stands in solidarity with the international community in its call for calm and remains steadfast in its conviction that sustainable peace can only be secured through diplomacy, mutual respect, and faithful adherence to international law,” he added.
The Federal Government reiterated its commitment to promoting peace, stability, and respect for global norms, highlighting the importance of multilateral collaboration in addressing emerging security challenges worldwide.
What you should know
Nigeria has positioned itself as a voice for restraint amid escalating military exchanges between the United States, Israel, and Iran.
By emphasising adherence to the United Nations Charter and the Geneva Conventions, Abuja is reinforcing its non-aligned foreign policy stance and support for diplomacy over force.
The call reflects broader international concern that continued hostilities in the Gulf could destabilise global security and disrupt economic interests, including energy markets.
Nigeria has pledged to back mediation and multilateral efforts aimed at restoring calm and preventing further escalation.
