By Kazeem Ugbodaga
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s solidarity with Gulf nations affected by the ongoing tensions arising from the United States and Israel’s conflict with Iran, stressing the country’s commitment to global peace and stability.
The President made the remarks on Thursday at the State House in Abuja while receiving Letters of Credence from seven ambassadors and two high commissioners representing various countries, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia.
Tinubu expressed support for countries in the Gulf region, including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman and Jordan, commending their restraint in the face of recent attacks linked to the conflict.
He said Nigeria remains firmly aligned with efforts aimed at promoting peace, noting that global stability requires cooperation and mutual understanding among nations.
“The world needs tranquillity, peace and love. We share that solidarity with all of you in that region,” the President said.
During the ceremony, Tinubu welcomed the newly accredited envoys, describing their appointments as a reflection of their countries’ confidence in Nigeria and a step towards strengthening bilateral relations.
He urged them to convey Nigeria’s goodwill to their respective governments, while reaffirming the country’s readiness to deepen diplomatic and economic ties for mutual benefit.
The President also outlined his administration’s foreign policy direction, noting that Nigeria is pursuing strategic international partnerships to support economic reforms, attract investment, and drive sustainable growth.
According to him, the country remains committed to leveraging its youthful population, strengthening infrastructure, and enhancing collaboration with global partners, including through diaspora engagement.
Tinubu further highlighted Nigeria’s role within the West African sub-region, reiterating its dedication to the principles of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), particularly in promoting constitutional order, regional integration and stability in the Sahel.
He said the challenges facing the global community—including climate change, energy transition, terrorism and economic inequality—require coordinated international responses, adding that Nigeria is prepared to work with partners in bilateral and multilateral forums to address them.
The President assured the envoys of full cooperation from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other government agencies, encouraging them to explore opportunities across the country beyond the capital city.
Responding on behalf of the diplomatic corps, the Ambassador of Qatar thanked Tinubu for the reception and pledged continued efforts to strengthen relations between Nigeria and their respective countries.
The engagement underscores Nigeria’s broader diplomatic posture amid rising geopolitical tensions, as it seeks to balance international solidarity with its strategic economic and security interests.