• Super Admin
• 07 Mar, 2026

Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, denied allegations that Iran sponsors terrorism in Nigeria or across the Sahel. Mr Raja made the rebuttal, in an exclusive interview with Vanguard, in response to statements attributed to the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, on Friday. Describing the claims as "entirely unfounded", as well as a product of a desperate and broader propaganda campaign, Mr Raja argued that Israel's allegations are a strategic smokescreen designed to deflect global attention from Israel's own record of "state terrorism." He countered that it is Israel, not Iran, that has a documented history of violating international law through the targeted assassination of scientists and political figures on foreign soil. Mr Raja said, "Such allegations are entirely unfounded and form part of a propaganda campaign by a regime that has a long record of violence and violations of international law." He stressed that Iran itself has been a victim of terrorism over decades, with thousands of citizens affected, and emphasized the country's commitment to genuine international cooperation to combat terrorism. Raja further reassured Nigeria of Tehran's friendly relations, noting that bilateral ties are cordial, transparent, and legally grounded, spanning trade, education, culture, science, technology, health, and diplomatic engagement. "Iran regards Nigeria as an important and influential country in Africa and seeks constructive, long-term engagement with Nigeria and all African countries," he said. Source: https://www.informationng.com/2026/03/iran-not-sponsoring-terrorism-in-nigeria-ambassador-raja-dispels-israels-allegation.html