Nigeria Pushes for Ceasefire Amid Israel–Iran War
Nigeria’s government has taken a diplomatic stance on the escalating Israel–Iran conflict, condemning recent strikes, urging immediate diplomatic intervention, and prioritizing the safety of more than 1,000 Nigerian nationals caught in the crossfire.
Federal Government Condemns Preemptive Strikes
On June 14, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through spokesperson Kimiebi Ebienfa, strongly condemned Israel’s “preemptive” air raids on Iran’s nuclear and military infrastructure. The statement described the attacks as “gravely concerning,” stressing that they aggravate regional tensions and threaten international peace .
Omayuli during the press briefing emphasized the danger, saying the continuing missile exchanges “pose grave threats to civilian lives” and could spark broader instability . Echoing its long-standing diplomatic policy, Nigeria appealed to the United Nations Security Council to mediate and forge a ceasefire.
Nigeria Joins Global Appeal For Diplomacy
Nigeria didn’t act alone. The same urgent message came from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, France, Turkey, Qatar, and UN officials. Prime Minister Macron and EU envoys pressed for renewed negotiations to prevent Iran from expanding its nuclear capabilities. Nigeria’s Ministry aligned with these global calls, vowing to support peaceful, legal resolutions above military options
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Evacuation in Progress As Nigeria Prioritizes Citizens Abroad
Realizing the conflict’s direct impact on Nigerian citizens overseas, the federal government promptly moved to secure their safe return. On June 19, official statements confirmed that final arrangements for evacuation flights from Tel Aviv and Tehran were underway .
Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar applauded the efforts of Nigerian embassy staff in Israel and Iran, stressing Abuja’s “commitment to the safety and welfare” of its people abroad . More than 1,000 Nigerians have since registered via embassies, awaiting transport through corridors such as Armenia, with diplomatic ties facilitating thousands of safe border passages .
Nigerian Embassy Dispel Abandonment Rumor
Contrary to circulating reports claiming embassy staff in Tehran abandoned Nigerians, the Federal Government clarified that no diplomatic mission has been shut down. Staff have adapted to remote operations due to security constraints, and evacuee coordination remains active in partnership with Armenian authorities .
But some Nigerians in Israel voiced frustration. Punch Newspapers reported that many remain in bomb shelters, expressing disappointment over what they described as a lack of timely embassy support . Nigerian missions continue to appeal for calm and await clearance to begin flights.
Domestic Solidarity: Religious Groups Express Support
Inside Nigeria, domestic sentiment shifted as hundreds of Shia Muslims in Abuja and Bauchi publicly cheered Iran, viewing its military actions as a defense against Israeli aggression. Celebrations took place during Eid‑Ghadir and Mubahala events, with participants waving Iranian flags and praising Iran’s resistance . While these expressions reflect a segment of the population, the official Federal stance remains rooted in diplomacy and non‑alignment.
The World Watches as Ceasefire Unravels
With hopes for lasting peace fading and civilians caught in the middle, the situation remains tense. Trump’s ceasefire plan faces its most serious test as leaders across the globe look for a way to de-escalate the crisis. Whether diplomacy will prevail or further escalation will take hold is a question that has everyone, from world powers to everyday people, hoping that talks will win out over firepower. In the middle of all these, Nigeria stands firm on diplomatic principles, calling for peace, initiating citizen protection, and condemning any breach of international law.
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