President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has affirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Gulf countries affected by recent tensions linked to the US–Israel conflict with Iran, pledging continued support for peace and global stability.
Speaking at the State House in Abuja during a ceremony to receive Letters of Credence from newly appointed envoys, the President commended nations such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates for their resilience and restraint amid the crisis.
“Let me first of all congratulate all of you and use this opportunity to say that the Federal Republic of Nigeria expresses its full solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the State of Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, the State of Kuwait, the Kingdom of Bahrain, the Sultanate of Oman, and the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in the face of the recent attacks and say that we will always strive for peace and stability across the world,” he said.
“The world needs tranquillity, peace and love. We share that solidarity with all of you in that region,’’ the President added.
Tinubu told the diplomats that Nigeria remains committed to working with international partners to promote peace both within Africa and globally, noting that their appointments mark a new phase in diplomatic relations.
“Today marks a significant milestone in the enduring partnership between Nigeria and your various countries, as I receive your Letters of Credence and the Letters of Recall of your predecessors,” he stated.
He urged the envoys to convey his goodwill to their respective leaders, emphasising Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties for shared prosperity.
“Nigeria values the bonds of friendship we share. We remain fully committed to deepening these ties for the mutual prosperity and progress of our peoples,” he said.
Highlighting ongoing reforms, the President described the current period as pivotal in Nigeria’s development, with efforts underway to position the country as a competitive destination for investment and innovation.
“As you commence your tour of duty, I invite you to see Nigeria not just as Africa’s most populous nation but as a dynamic partner open for strategic and mutually beneficial business collaboration,” he noted.
Tinubu added that Nigeria’s foreign policy would continue to guide its engagements, focusing on youth development, infrastructure, diaspora potential, and democratic governance.
He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability through the Economic Community of West African States, stressing the importance of collective action in addressing security and development challenges, particularly in the Sahel.
“We are resolute in our commitment to the principles and protocols of ECOWAS. The defence of constitutional order, the pursuit of regional economic integration, and the stabilisation of the Sahel region are priorities that we cannot achieve in isolation,” he said.
The President further noted that global challenges—including climate change, energy transition, and counter-terrorism—require coordinated international responses.
“Nigeria stands ready to work with your governments bilaterally and in multilateral forums to advocate for a fairer, more secure world order,” he said.
Tinubu assured the envoys of full cooperation from government institutions and encouraged them to explore Nigeria’s cultural diversity and economic opportunities beyond the capital.
Responding on behalf of the diplomatic corps, Qatar’s ambassador expressed appreciation for the reception and pledged to strengthen relations between Nigeria and their respective countries.
Among those who presented credentials were ambassadors from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Sudan, and Namibia, marking a renewed phase of diplomatic engagement between Nigeria and its global partners.
