President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria issued a call for an immediate end to Israeli aggression in Gaza, voicing deep concern over the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. Speaking at the Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh, Tinubu urged for a united response to the decades-long conflict, highlighting the immense suffering endured by civilians.
“The conflict in Palestine has persisted for far too long, inflicting immeasurable suffering on countless lives,” President Tinubu stated. He called on world leaders to go beyond condemnation and work towards a peaceful resolution that safeguards innocent lives. “No political aim, no military strategy, and no security concern should come at the expense of so many innocent lives,” he added.
This one-day summit was a follow-up to last year’s Riyadh gathering, assembling Heads of State from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the League of Arab States to address the escalating tensions in the Middle East. Leaders at the summit discussed solutions to the ongoing violence in Gaza, stressing the need for humanitarian aid and diplomatic channels to alleviate suffering and promote stability.
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding support for a two-state solution, where Israelis and Palestinians could coexist in peace, dignity, and security. Describing this vision as “not just a diplomatic article of faith, but a vision grounded in equality and mutual recognition,” Tinubu stressed the need for a path to peace that honors the right to self-determination for both sides. He emphasized, “This conflict, in the cradle of history, is so visceral that the ripples of division spread far and quickly. The corrosive impact of the images of endless violence, repeated on a billion smartphones around the world, is huge. We need to find new pathways to peace, without delay.”
The Nigerian leader underscored the importance of proportionality in conflict, calling on all parties to respect civilians’ rights and adhere to global legal standards. He stated, “In a rules-based international order, States have the right of self-defense. But self-defense must take proportionality into account, in line with global legal, diplomatic, and moral frameworks.”
President Tinubu commended Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for convening the summit, describing it as a “vital opportunity” to renew diplomatic efforts for peace. Highlighting Nigeria’s own experiences with diversity and conflict, he emphasized the need for “honest conversation” to foster understanding and find lasting solutions.
“Our own experiences, domestically and regionally, have taught us that identity politics are no substitute for respecting the nuances of diversity,” Tinubu remarked. “The international community has the opportunity to bring to bear new thinking on this most relentless challenge.”
Tinubu’s address underscored Nigeria’s commitment to supporting international peace efforts in the Middle East, signaling that Nigeria would continue to contribute to global efforts aimed at stability and reconciliation in the region.
