President Tinubu Urges Ceasefire And Aid For Gaza At Arab-Islamic Summit.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called for an immediate halt to Israeli hostilities in Gaza during an extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Addressing leaders from across the region, he highlighted the severe humanitarian crisis affecting the Palestinian population, urging collective action to end the long-standing conflict.
Emphasising the devastating impact of the conflict, President Tinubu described the situation in Gaza as a “humanitarian disaster.” He appealed for an end to violence, underscoring the moral duty of international leaders to protect innocent lives. Tinubu argued that the right of self-defence must respect international norms, noting that no military strategy should sacrifice civilian lives as collateral.
He further highlighted the need for unrestricted humanitarian aid, stressing that access to life-saving assistance is a fundamental right for all, regardless of nationality or religion. President Tinubu expressed concern for humanitarian workers on the ground and urged that their safety be ensured.
Central to Tinubu’s address was his call for the long-envisioned two-state solution, which he believes remains a “beacon of hope” for peace and mutual recognition between Israelis and Palestinians. He acknowledged that achieving this goal would require compromise and historical understanding, but stressed it as the only path to lasting peace.
Tinubu also proposed establishing a dedicated Secretariat to oversee the implementation of the Summit’s resolutions and work towards a sustainable peace. This Secretariat, comprised of select heads of government or their representatives, would canvass global support for the resolutions and provide regular updates to Arab and Islamic leaders.
Closing his speech, Tinubu appealed for unity, urging leaders to prioritise the voices of families, children, and communities affected by the conflict. He called for a future free from violence and fear, affirming Nigeria’s commitment to peace and the pursuit of coexistence.