IRAN REJECTS ISRAELI CLAIMS OF SPONSORING TERRORISM IN NIGERIA, SAHEL
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The Iranian ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, has firmly rejected claims that Iran supports terrorism in Nigeria or throughout the Sahel region. He called the allegations “unfounded” and said they are part of a wider propaganda effort.
Raja made the remarks in an exclusive interview with Vanguard, responding to statements attributed to the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, who in a February 6, 2026 interview alleged that Iran exerts influence in Nigeria and the wider Sahel region through sponsorship of terrorism.
The Iranian representative rejected the claims, stating they come from a government with a history of aggression outside its borders. “These accusations are completely false and are part of a propaganda effort by a regime known for violence and breaking international laws,” Raja said.
He pointed out that Iran has faced terrorism for many years, affecting thousands of its people, and highlighted the country’s dedication to real international efforts to fight terrorism.
Raja also told Nigeria that Iran values its friendly relationship with the country, noting that the ties between the two nations are good, open, and based on law.
These relationships cover trade, education, culture, science, technology, health, and diplomacy. “Iran sees Nigeria as an important and influential country in Africa and wants to work closely with Nigeria and all African nations for the long term,” he said.
The ambassador‘s remarks came during rising tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States, after military strikes in late February 2026 hit Iranian cities and key sites.
These attacks, called Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Epic Fury, targeted air defense systems and nuclear facilities, leading to Iranian attacks on Israeli land and U.S. military bases in the Gulf.
The situation has also spread to the region, with groups linked to Tehran, like Hezbollah, launching rocket attacks on northern Israel, which led to strikes on Lebanese territory.
The economic impact includes problems in the global oil market, especially near the Strait of Hormuz.
As of early March 2026, there’s no sign the conflict is calming down.
Ongoing military actions, regional effects, and complicated diplomatic issues continue to make it hard for international peace efforts.
Raja said the accusations connecting Iran to terrorism in Nigeria and the Sahel are not true and encouraged using solid evidence instead of claims made for political reasons.
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