By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The Federal Government has issued a critical security advisory urging all Nigerian citizens residing in the Islamic Republic of Iran and neighboring Gulf countries to exercise extreme caution. This directive comes in response to rapidly escalating military tensions and retaliatory actions currently unfolding across the region.

In an official press statement released on Saturday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed it is closely monitoring the volatile security situation. According to the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the government is tracking reports of military action undertaken by Israel and the United States against targets in Iran, as well as subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran on locations within several Gulf nations.

In light of the heightened risk, the Ministry has outlined specific safety protocols for affected citizens:

The Ministry stated that Nigerians are advised to remain highly alert and constantly aware of their surroundings. Individuals must avoid areas housing strategic, military, or government installations, as these locations are considered potential flashpoints for further escalation.

Also, citizens are strongly urged to restrict all non-essential movement and travel within these countries until the security situation stabilizes. The public is also advised to avoid large gatherings and public demonstrations, which may be targeted or become volatile.

In line with standard safety procedures, all Nigerians are instructed to strictly comply with security directives and safety protocols issued by local law enforcement and governing bodies in their respective host countries.

The Ministry emphasized that cooperation with local authorities remains paramount for personal safety.

Nigerians requiring assistance or further information are encouraged to contact the nearest Nigerian Embassy or Mission for guidance.

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

The African Union (AU) has issued a strong condemnation of joint military strikes conducted by the United States and Israel against targets in Iran, warning that the action constitutes a perilous escalation of conflict in the Middle East.

In a statement released on Saturday, AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf expressed deep concern over what he described as a “serious intensification of hostilities.” He urgently called for restraint and a return to dialogue, emphasizing that “all parties must act fully in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter to safeguard international peace and security.”

Youssouf warned that further military action could have cascading global effects, “with serious implications for energy markets, food security, and economic resilience—particularly in Africa, where conflict and economic pressures remain acute.” He urged all parties to prioritize diplomatic engagement, including ongoing mediation efforts facilitated by Oman, stressing that “sustainable peace can only be achieved through diplomacy, not through force.”

The strikes also drew a concerned response from European Council President António Costa, who stated that the “developments in Iran are greatly concerning.” He reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to regional stability, highlighting the critical importance of nuclear safety and preventing actions that could “undermine the global non-proliferation regime.”

Costa noted the EU’s extensive sanctions regime against Iran and called on “all parties to exercise maximum restraint, to protect civilians, and to fully respect international law.” He added that the bloc is coordinating closely with member states to ensure the safety of EU citizens in the region.

The diplomatic reactions follow a wave of US and Israeli strikes on Saturday against sites in Iran, which included targets in the capital, Tehran. Witnesses reported explosions and plumes of smoke rising from the city.

US President Donald Trump characterized the operation as a measure to eliminate “imminent threats” from Iran. In a video message, he asserted, “The United States’ military began major combat operations in Iran,” vowing to destroy the country’s missile capabilities and navy. Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz described the action as a “preventive strike.”

By Yusuf Danjuma Yunusa

Saudi Arabia issued a fiery condemnation of Iran on Saturday, accusing Tehran of committing “blatant aggression” and violating the sovereignty of multiple Arab nations.

In a strongly worded statement, the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed “unwavering support” for the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, and Jordan. Riyadh described the alleged actions as flagrant breaches of international law that threaten the peace and stability of the region.

The Kingdom declared its readiness to place “all its capabilities” at the disposal of the affected countries to support any defensive measures. It warned of “grave consequences” if the violations persist and called on the international community to take firm action against what it termed Iran’s destabilizing conduct.

While the statement did not specify the incidents that prompted the rebuke, the direct naming of five nations signals a concerted effort by Riyadh to project regional unity and strengthen collective deterrence against perceived Iranian assertiveness.