The Iranian Ambassador to Nigeria, Gholamreza Raja, has dismissed allegations that Iran is spreading terrorism in Nigeria, stating that the country is willing to assist Nigeria in tackling violent extremism.
Speaking during an interview with Arise Television, Raja said Iran strongly condemns terrorism and is prepared to cooperate with Nigeria and other countries facing security threats.
“Iran condemns terrorism of any kind and expresses readiness to cooperate with governments facing it,” Raja said.
Addressing Nigeria’s security challenges, particularly the activities of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, the ambassador reiterated Iran’s willingness to support efforts aimed at combating violent extremism.
“Nigeria faces security challenges from Boko Haram and ISWAP, and we are ready to support the government in combating terrorism,” he added.
Raja noted that Iran’s stance against terrorism is shaped by its own experiences with extremist attacks, describing the country as a victim of terrorism.
“As a victim of terrorism ourselves, we condemn terrorism in Nigeria,” he said.
The ambassador also rejected allegations circulating globally that Iran poses a threat to peace in other countries, describing such claims as unfounded.
“First of all, they are just baseless allegations which that person raised,” he said.
Raja explained that many Muslims around the world feel a spiritual and cultural connection with Iran but stressed that such ties should not be interpreted as political support.
“Iran has so many followers, according to the followers of the spiritual leader. Those persons, Muslims — not only the Shiites, not only the Sunnis — they are followers spiritually and culturally, not politically,” he said.
He added that some public gatherings in Africa following the assassination of Iran’s supreme leader were peaceful mourning events and should not be seen as political alignment with Iran.
“That doesn’t mean that Iran is defending those groups, no, no, no. It is a moral and spiritual connection because they are Muslims and we are Muslims,” Raja said.
