FG Backs Saudi Arabia Amid Gulf Tensions, Reaffirms Commitment to Peace and Bilateral Ties

The Federal Government has expressed solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia amid renewed tensions in the Gulf region, while also commending Riyadh for awarding fully-funded scholarships to Nigerian students in petroleum and mineral-related disciplines.

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, conveyed Nigeria’s position in Abuja during a meeting with the visiting Saudi Arabian Ambassador to Nigeria, Yousef Bin Mohammed Al-Balawi.

Idris said Nigeria strongly supports diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation and peaceful resolution of tensions in the Gulf region, stressing the importance of dialogue in resolving global conflicts.

“Let me also take this opportunity, on behalf of the Federal Government, to express our solidarity with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia at this time of tensions in the Gulf region. We sincerely hope for continued peace, stability, and diplomatic resolution of all issues,” he said.

The minister also praised Saudi Arabia’s scholarship programme, describing it as a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, particularly in critical sectors such as petroleum and solid minerals.

According to him, the initiative, facilitated through the King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, will provide 50 Nigerian students annually with fully-funded scholarships, thereby strengthening technical capacity in key sectors of the economy.

“This is not just a scholarship programme; it is a strategic investment in Nigeria’s future, particularly in key sectors such as petroleum and solid minerals that are central to our economic growth and diversification,” Idris stated.

He added that the continuity of the programme would ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals to support Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.

Idris further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Saudi Arabia, including efforts to accelerate pending agreements in broadcasting and other areas of cooperation.

He noted that both countries share long-standing diplomatic and economic ties that continue to evolve in response to global developments.

In his response, Ambassador Al-Balawi conveyed appreciation from the Saudi leadership to President Bola Tinubu for Nigeria’s message of solidarity, describing it as a reflection of strong and enduring relations between both nations.

Meanwhile, international developments continue to shape the geopolitical landscape, as Russia reiterated its involvement in efforts to reduce tensions in the Middle East.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking in Saint Petersburg, said Moscow would do everything within its power to support peace efforts in the region, amid ongoing Iran-related tensions.

According to reports, Russia also reaffirmed its strategic partnership with Iran, as global energy markets continue to react to instability in the Gulf, with crude oil prices rising due to supply concerns linked to disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz.