The Federal Government has condemned the Houthi militia attack on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, which reportedly killed 12 civilians and injured more than 300 others.
Nigeria described the October 10 incident as a dangerous escalation that threatens civilian lives, violates Saudi Arabia’s sovereignty and undermines efforts to promote peace and stability in the Middle East.
In a statement issued on Sunday, October 11, 2026, by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Oluwafemi Adeniyi, the government expressed concern over the reported casualties and called for restraint among parties involved in the regional conflict.
“Nigeria considers the incident a dangerous escalation that flagrantly disregards the safety of civilian life, violates the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and undermines ongoing efforts to promote peace, security and stability in the Middle East,” the statement said.
The Federal Government urged all parties to respect international law and refrain from actions capable of worsening tensions in the region.
“Nigeria reiterates its call on all parties to respect international law, exercise utmost restraint, and refrain from any further action that could escalate tensions, endanger civilian lives, damage civilian infrastructure or further undermine regional peace and security,” it stated.
Nigeria also stressed the need to protect civilians and essential infrastructure from attacks, warning against further actions that could threaten regional stability.
The government expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria expresses its solidarity with the Government and people of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and extends its deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the attack,” the statement said.
It added that Nigeria wished those injured in the attack a speedy and full recovery.
The government further emphasised the importance of respecting Saudi Arabia’s territorial integrity and adhering to international obligations on civilian protection.
“Nigeria underscores the imperative of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, as well as upholding international law, particularly the obligations to protect civilian lives and safeguard critical infrastructure,” the statement added.
The Federal Government also commended the Saudi authorities for their response following the attack, acknowledging efforts to address the emergency and protect lives.
“Nigeria commends the Government of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for its prompt emergency response following the incident in King Khalid International Airport, and acknowledges its sustained efforts to safeguard the Kingdom’s security and protect the lives and well-being of its people,” the statement said.
Beyond condemning the attack, Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to diplomatic initiatives and constructive dialogue as essential tools for resolving international disputes and preventing further violence.
The government said it remained committed to supporting genuine efforts aimed at reducing tensions, promoting regional stability and protecting civilians across the Middle East.
It also called for continued international cooperation to prevent further escalation and safeguard critical infrastructure from attacks.
The statement was signed by Adeniyi, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in Abuja on Sunday, October 11, 2026.