The Digest:
The Federal Government has called for immediate de-escalation and maximum restraint in the Gulf region following coordinated US-Israeli military strikes on Iran and Tehran's retaliatory attacks on Gulf countries. In a statement, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa urged all parties to refrain from actions that could intensify hostilities and prioritize dialogue over confrontation. Nigeria emphasized strict adherence to the principles of the UN Charter and Geneva Convention regarding sovereignty, territorial integrity, and peaceful dispute settlement. The government stressed the imperative of restraint in the use of lethal force to prevent further civilian casualties and safeguard international law. Reaffirming Nigeria's non-alignment policy and commitment to multilateralism, the statement welcomed confidence-building initiatives and mediation efforts, encouraging all parties to pursue peaceful resolution in the interest of collective security.
Key Points:
- Nigeria's neutral stance seeks to position the country as a voice for diplomacy amid escalating conflict.
- The emphasis on international law reflects concern about precedent-setting violations of sovereignty.
- The call for civilian protection acknowledges the devastating human toll of the strikes and retaliation.
- Reaffirmation of non-alignment distances Nigeria from taking sides in the geopolitical confrontation.
- The statement aligns Nigeria with global calls for restraint while maintaining diplomatic balance.
Sources: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Statement
