What Nigeria Just Said About the Escalating Conflict Between Israel and Iran Will Surprise You

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, warning that the attack marks a dangerous escalation that risks destabilizing the Middle East and jeopardizing global peace and security.

In a statement released Saturday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria expressed “grave concern” over the growing hostilities between Israel and Iran. The government called for an immediate cessation of violence and urged both nations to prioritize diplomacy over confrontation.

“The government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria condemns Israel’s preemptive strike on Iran that has led to an escalation of hostilities… marked by sustained missile and aerial exchanges,” the statement read. “We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and urge both parties to exercise utmost restraint in the interest of regional and global peace.”

The statement warned that the continuous cycle of retaliation threatens not just civilian lives, but also the broader stability of the region, with serious implications for international security and economic development.

Reaffirming its longstanding commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, Nigeria emphasized that military aggression is not a viable substitute for negotiation.

“The path to lasting peace lies in diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law,” the statement noted. “Military action is not a substitute for negotiation.”

The Federal Government also called on the international community—especially the United Nations Security Council—to intensify efforts to de-escalate the crisis and facilitate meaningful dialogue.

“As a nation deeply committed to the principles of peaceful coexistence, non-aggression, and multilateral diplomacy, Nigeria urges all parties to prioritize dialogue over confrontation,” the statement continued.

“Nigeria stands ready to support all genuine efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions and promoting peace in the region.”

The condemnation follows Friday’s extensive Israeli air campaign across Iran, which reportedly targeted over 100 locations, including nuclear and military sites. The strikes resulted in the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials, including Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, General Mohammad Bagheri, and IRGC commander Hossein Salami.

In retaliation, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei described the attack as a “declaration of war” and vowed severe consequences, warning that the response would have “no limits.”

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