Nigeria Condemns Israeli Airstrikes on Iran, Calls for Immediate Ceasefire

The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, describing the assault as a dangerous escalation that threatens peace and stability across the Middle East.

In a statement issued on Saturday by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, Nigeria expressed deep concern over the intensifying conflict between the two nations, which has now evolved into a series of sustained missile and aerial exchanges.

“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 read. “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 government warned that the spiraling violence endangers civilian populations and could destabilize the entire Middle East, with far-reaching consequences for global 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,” the statement continued. “This has serious implications for international security and economic development.”

Reaffirming its long-standing commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, Nigeria emphasized that military action is no substitute for dialogue and diplomacy.

“Military action is not a substitute for negotiation,” the statement said. “Lasting peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, mutual respect, and adherence to international law.”

The Nigerian government also called on the international community, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to take urgent steps toward de-escalating the crisis and facilitating dialogue between both parties.

“Nigeria calls on all involved to prioritise dialogue over confrontation. We urge the international community, especially the United Nations Security Council, to intensify efforts toward immediate de-escalation and create a platform for meaningful engagement,” the statement added.

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

The call for calm follows Israel’s large-scale aerial offensive on Friday, during which it reportedly struck around 100 targets inside Iran, including nuclear facilities and military installations.

The strikes reportedly claimed the lives of several top Iranian military leaders, including General Mohammad Bagheri, Iran’s armed forces chief of staff, and Hossein Salami, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Reacting to the attack, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared it a “declaration of war,” vowing severe retaliation against Israel. The Iranian military also warned that its response would have “no limits.”