Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, Iran's Ambassador to Nigeria, has declared Tehran's readiness to assist Nigeria in combating terrorism, emphasizing that Iran condemns such acts globally and is willing to share its counterterrorism experience.
In an interview on Arise Television (aired around March 8, 2026), Raja stated that Iran is prepared to "lend a helping hand" to Nigerian authorities.
He specifically referenced the threats posed by groups like Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), noting, "Nigeria faces security challenges from Boko Haram, ISWAP, and others.
"We are ready to support the government in combating terrorism."
As a country that has itself been a victim of terrorism, Iran strongly condemns attacks in Nigeria and across Africa, Raja added.
He expressed willingness to cooperate with African nations facing similar threats, highlighting Iran's extensive regional experience in countering terrorism.
The ambassador's remarks came amid heightened diplomatic tensions, following accusations by Israel's Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, who claimed Iran sponsors Islamic movements in Nigeria and West Africa to spread terror.
These allegations surfaced in the context of protests by the Islamic Movement in Nigeria (IMN) and other Shi'ite groups mourning the killing of Iran's supreme leader in US-Israeli strikes on Tehran.
Raja firmly rejected the claims as "completely baseless and politically motivated," aimed at undermining longstanding Nigeria-Iran relations spanning over six decades.
He clarified that Islamic groups in Nigeria, including the IMN, maintain only spiritual and cultural ties with Iran not political ones.
Recent rallies and mourning events by Shi'ites in Nigeria were driven by "moral and spiritual connection" among Muslims, not political alignment or sponsorship.
The IMN's media forum dismissed Freeman's statements as "possible false-flag terrorism by the Israelis," accusing Israel of hypocrisy amid its own alleged violations of international law.
Raja reaffirmed Iran's respect for Nigeria's sovereignty and security, describing bilateral ties as cordial and focused on areas like trade, energy, education, culture, science, technology, and health.
He stressed Tehran's desire for constructive, long-term engagement with Nigeria and other African countries.
No immediate official response from the Nigerian government has been reported on the ambassador's offer of support.
The development occurs against the backdrop of Nigeria's persistent battle with insurgency in the Northeast and banditry elsewhere, where groups like Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to pose significant threats despite ongoing military operations.
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