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Iran offers counterterrorism support to Nigeria, envoy says
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Ambassador denies claims Iran sponsors Islamic movements in Nigeria
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Tehran says it is also a victim of terrorism and ready to share experience
Mahdavi Raja, the Ambassador of Iran to Nigeria, has expressed Tehran’s readiness to support Nigeria in its fight against terrorism.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television, the envoy said Iran is willing to cooperate with Nigeria by sharing its experience in combating terrorist threats.
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Raja explained that Islamic groups in Nigeria maintain only spiritual and cultural connections with Iran, stressing that the ties are not political.
His remarks came after Michael Freeman, the Ambassador of Israel to Nigeria, accused Iran of sponsoring Islamic movements in Nigeria and West Africa as part of efforts to spread terrorism globally.
Freeman made the allegation following protests by members of the Islamic Movement of Nigeria (IMN), also known as Shi’ites, in several states over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ali Khamenei, during recent United States and Israeli air strikes on Tehran.
Responding to the accusations, Raja said the rallies and mourning events held by Shi’ites in Nigeria were driven by a religious and spiritual connection to the late Iranian leader.
According to him, the demonstrations were peaceful and should not be interpreted as evidence of political or security ties between Iran and the groups.
The Iranian envoy also stressed that his country has consistently condemned terrorism and stands ready to assist countries battling insurgency.
He noted that Nigeria faces serious security challenges from groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
Raja said Iran is prepared to cooperate with Nigerian authorities by sharing its experience in counterterrorism operations.
He added that Iran itself has suffered from terrorist attacks and remains committed to supporting African countries in efforts to combat terrorism.