Tinubu Urges U.S., Israel, Iran to Halt Hostilities; Issues Safety Advisory for Nigerians in Middle East

The administration of Bola Tinubu has urged the United States, Israel and Iran to end ongoing hostilities and resume diplomatic engagement, as tensions escalate across parts of the Middle East.

In a statement released Saturday, the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the federal government is closely monitoring developments following reported military actions by Israel and the United States against targets in the Islamic Republic of Iran, and retaliatory strikes by Iran in parts of the Gulf region.

“The Government of Nigeria wishes to call on parties to the conflict to de-escalate the crisis by returning to the negotiation table for the interests of global peace and coexistence,” the ministry said.

The government also issued a security advisory to Nigerians residing in Iran and affected Gulf countries, urging heightened caution.

Citizens were advised to remain vigilant, avoid strategic, military and government facilities, and limit non-essential movement until the security situation stabilises. The ministry further warned against attending large gatherings or public demonstrations and directed Nigerians to comply strictly with safety instructions issued by local authorities.

The appeal followed a wave of airstrikes on Saturday involving U.S. and Iranian forces. Reports indicate that key sites in Iran, including locations linked to the country’s nuclear programme and the office of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, were targeted.

In a national broadcast, President Donald Trump said the United States had launched what he described as “major combat operations” aimed at neutralising threats posed by Iran’s leadership. He stated that the objective of the campaign was to protect American citizens and weaken the Iranian government.