Iran Offers to Assist Nigeria in Counterterrorism Efforts, Rejects Israeli Terror Claims

Story: Written by springnewsng March 9,2026
The government of Iran has expressed willingness to support Nigeria in tackling terrorism, while strongly dismissing allegations from Israel that Tehran is backing extremist groups across West Africa.
Iran’s ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja, made the remarks during an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, where he stated that Iran condemns terrorism in all forms and is prepared to share its experience in combating extremist threats.
According to the envoy, Nigeria continues to face security challenges from militant groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), adding that Iran has developed significant expertise in counterterrorism operations over the years.
“We understand that Nigeria is dealing with security threats from Boko Haram, ISWAP and other groups. Iran has extensive experience in fighting terrorism in our region, and we are ready to share that experience with Nigeria,” Raja said.
The ambassador’s comments were in response to earlier remarks by Michael Freeman, Israel’s ambassador to Nigeria, who accused Iran of sponsoring Islamic movements in Nigeria and other parts of West Africa as part of efforts to spread global terrorism.
Freeman alleged that Iran has been involved in promoting terror activities while also pursuing ballistic missile and nuclear programmes that raise international concerns.
However, Raja rejected the claims, insisting that Iran does not support terrorism and remains committed to cooperating with other nations in addressing security threats.
Nigeria has battled insurgency for more than a decade, particularly in the northeastern region, where attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP have resulted in thousands of deaths and displacement of millions of residents.