The Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, has strongly rejected allegations that Iran sponsors terrorism in Nigeria and the wider Sahel region, describing the claims as baseless and part of a wider propaganda effort.
Raja made the clarification during an exclusive interview with Vanguard Newspaper Nigeria while responding to remarks reportedly made by the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman.
In a February 6, 2026 interview, Freeman had alleged that Iran exerts influence in Nigeria and across the Sahel through the sponsorship of terrorism.
However, Raja dismissed the accusation, stating that it originates from a government with a long history of violence beyond its borders.
According to him, the allegations are entirely unfounded and are part of a propaganda campaign designed to tarnish Iran’s international reputation.
He further stressed that Iran has itself suffered greatly from terrorism over the years, noting that thousands of its citizens have been victims of terrorist attacks.
The Iranian envoy emphasized that Tehran remains committed to genuine international cooperation in the global fight against terrorism.
Raja also reassured Nigeria of Iran’s commitment to maintaining strong bilateral relations.
He noted that relations between Iran and Nigeria remain cordial, transparent, and legally grounded.
According to him, the relationship between both countries spans several sectors including trade, education, culture, science, technology, health, and diplomatic engagement.
He added that Iran considers Nigeria a key and influential country in Africa and is interested in sustaining constructive and long-term partnerships with Nigeria and other African nations.
The ambassador’s comments come amid rising tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States.
In late February 2026, coordinated military strikes targeted Iranian cities and strategic installations.
The operations, known as Operation Roaring Lion and Operation Epic Fury, reportedly focused on air defence systems and nuclear infrastructure.
The strikes triggered retaliatory attacks by Iran on Israeli territory and U.S. military bases located in the Gulf region.
The conflict has also escalated regionally, with Iran-aligned groups such as Hezbollah launching rockets into northern Israel, leading to reciprocal strikes on targets within Lebanon.
The crisis has begun to affect global economic stability, particularly due to disruptions around the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil shipments.
Despite the growing tensions, Raja reiterated that allegations linking Iran to terrorism in Nigeria and the Sahel remain unsubstantiated.
He urged the international community to rely on credible, evidence-based assessments rather than politically motivated accusations.
