The Nigerian Police Force has assured the public that measures are being taken to ensure safety and maintain order amid escalating tensions in the Middle East.
The Force said it has intensified intelligence-led operations nationwide to prevent any attempt to exploit international conflicts to create unrest in Nigeria.
Acting Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed all state police commissioners, including those in the Federal Capital Territory, to collaborate with community and religious leaders. The directive focuses on increased patrols and surveillance around worship centres and other public spaces, particularly in the North West, North East, and North Central regions.
The Police warned that Nigeria will not tolerate the importation of foreign conflicts, and anyone attempting to bring external political or religious disputes into the country will face legal action. Community leaders have been encouraged to promote peace, while citizens are urged to remain calm, obey the law, and report suspicious activity.
These measures follow US-Israeli airstrikes on Iran on 28 February 2026, which reportedly killed Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other top officials. Iran subsequently launched counterstrikes across the Gulf region, causing explosions in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and other countries hosting American bases.
The strikes disrupted flights, damaged infrastructure, and resulted in civilian casualties. In response, the Nigerian government issued travel warnings for its citizens in Iran and Gulf nations and called for restraint, urging all parties to reduce hostilities.