The Federal Government has called for de-escalation and restraint in the Gulf region following the ongoing U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

Mr Ebienfa in the statement quoted Mr Tuggar as expressing deep concern over the rising tensions in the Gulf region, particularly the risk of further escalation with potentially grave consequences for regional and global stability.

According to him, Nigeria calls on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and refrain from actions that can intensify hostilities, and prioritise dialogue over confrontation.

Mr Tuggar said, “We urge strict adherence to the provisions of the UN Charter and the Geneva Convention, particularly taking into cognisance the respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the peaceful settlement of disputes.

He stated, “In this regard, Nigeria emphasises the imperative of restraint in the use of lethal force, to prevent further loss of civilian life and avoid any actions that could undermine or abrogate established norms of international law.

“The preservation of the existing legal architecture that regulates and limits the use of force remains essential to the protection of victims, safeguarding of civilian populations and maintenance of international order.”

Mr Tuggar further said that, as a longstanding advocate for non-alignment, multilateralism, and constructive engagement, Nigeria supported renewed diplomatic efforts within established international and regional frameworks to resolve the crisis.

“We welcome initiatives aimed at confidence-building, mediation, and dialogue, and encourage all stakeholders and parties in the conflict to pursue peaceful resolution in the interest of collective security and shared prosperity,” he said.

The minister reiterated that Nigeria was standing in solidarity with the international community in its call for calm.

He added that Nigeria remained steadfast in its conviction that sustainable peace could only be secured through diplomacy, mutual respect, and faithful adherence to international law. 

(NAN)