Nigeria Condemns Houthi Attack on Saudi Civilians, Calls for Urgent De-escalation

By Iyojo Ameh

The Federal Government of Nigeria has condemned the recent attack by Houthi militia against civilian targets in Saudi Arabia’s Najran Region, describing the incident as a serious violation of international humanitarian law.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement issued on Friday, August 7, 2026, said the attack, which reportedly injured several civilians, including women and children, was “reprehensible” and unacceptable under international law.

The statement, signed by the Ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said Nigeria strongly rejects the escalation of violence in the region and called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint.

“Nigeria reaffirms its unwavering rejection of the escalation of violence in the region,” the ministry said.

It stressed that attacks deliberately targeting civilian populations or civilian infrastructure, regardless of the perpetrator, must be unequivocally condemned by the international community.

The Nigerian government further urged all parties involved in the conflict to respect international humanitarian law and make the protection of civilians a priority.

Nigeria also called for renewed and intensified diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful and sustainable resolution to the conflict, while stressing the need to uphold the sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of all states in the region.

According to the Ministry, Nigeria is closely monitoring developments and will continue to work with regional and international partners to promote peace, security and stability in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.

The latest position underscores Nigeria’s continued call for diplomatic engagement and restraint amid renewed tensions in the region.