The Federal Government has condemned an attack by Houthi militia on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Saturday, describing it as a “dangerous escalation”.
Oluwafemi Adeniyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said in a statement on Sunday that Nigeria viewed the incident as a disregard for civilian safety and a violation of Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty.
He added that the attack undermined efforts to promote peace, security and stability in the Middle East.
“Nigeria reiterates its call on all parties to respect international law, exercise utmost restraint, and refrain from any further action that could escalate tensions, endanger civilian lives, damage civilian infrastructure or further undermine regional peace and security,” the statement reads.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses its solidarity with the Government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack. Nigeria also wishes those injured a speedy and full recovery.
“Nigeria underscores the imperative of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as upholding international law, particularly the obligations to protect civilian lives and safeguard critical infrastructure.
“Nigeria commends the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its prompt emergency response following the incident in King Khalid International Airport, and acknowledges its sustained efforts to safeguard the Kingdom’s security and protect the lives and well-being of its people.”
The statement added that the Federal Government remained committed to supporting diplomatic initiatives and constructive dialogue to advance international peace, security and stability.
It also reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for efforts to ease tensions, strengthen regional stability, protect civilians and safeguard critical infrastructure across the Middle East.
According to AFP, 12 people were killed and hundreds injured in the attack, making it the deadliest strike on Saudi soil in more than a decade.
The report said the incident prompted the Saudi-led coalition to pledge a decisive response against Yemen’s Houthis on Sunday.
The attack occurred amid an unprecedented wave of Houthi strikes against Saudi Arabia since a truce in the group’s prolonged conflict with Yemen’s Riyadh-backed government collapsed in July.
The rising violence has fuelled concerns about a wider regional conflict, with US President Donald Trump indicating that Washington could join military action against the fighters.