TheDiggerNews
Abuja: Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Amb. Mahdavi Raja has reaffirmed Tehran’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Nigeria.
Raja spoke on Tuesday in Abuja, briefing journalists on the revised areas of cooperation and recent political and economic developments in Iran.
He described Iran as strategically important due to its geography, energy resources, and regional connectivity.
Raja said Nigeria was equally strategic, citing its population size, market potential, and leadership role in Africa.
He stressed the need to strengthen bilateral ties to unlock mutual economic and developmental benefits.
According to him, Iran and Nigeria’s long-standing OPEC membership provides a solid platform for deeper energy collaboration.
“Closer cooperation will enhance our influence in the global oil market and help maximise profits,” Raja said.
He noted Iran’s expertise in petrochemical refining as an area in which Nigeria could significantly benefit.
“We have good experience in petrochemical refineries, which Nigeria needs.
“These capacities across many fields can pave the way for broader cooperation,” he said.
Raja said his mandate covered engagement with government, private sector, and media stakeholders.
“Not only government officials, but private sector players and the media are very important,” he said.
He commended Nigeria’s regional influence, saying that energy, trade, education, and cultural exchange were priority areas for cooperation.
Raja described recent protests in Iran, which began on Dec. 28, as initially peaceful demonstrations by groups expressing economic grievances in several cities and towns.
He said the protests, mainly involving traders and citizens concerned about economic conditions, became more complex as allegations of foreign interference emerged.
Raja said external actors, including comments by U.S. President Donald Trump, influenced the unrest.
He said such comments threatened public safety, social order, and breached international law and the UN Charter.
He said these actions are not permitted under international law.
He described calls to take up arms against the Iranian government as concerning.
