David Awoyode
Christians United for Israel Prayer Outreach, Nigeria, has called on the Federal Government to uphold its diplomatic and economic relationship with Israel for the sake of national development, security, and global peace.
Response to Calls for Cutting Ties
The organisation made the appeal in reaction to recent demands for Nigeria to suspend relations with Israel.
It warned that breaking ties would undermine decades of cooperation in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, healthcare, and education.
Mutual Benefits and Security Interests
Executive Secretary Dr. Samson Ozovehe, in a statement, urged Nigerians to view the Middle East situation with fairness and clarity.
He stressed that Nigeria’s relations with Israel should be based on mutual benefits, shared security interests, and a commitment to peacebuilding, not religious or political rivalry.
Context of the Middle East Crisis
Referring to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed over 1,200 people and led to the abduction of more than 200 hostages, Ozovehe said Israel’s military actions target a globally recognised terrorist organisation, not the Palestinian people.
Support for Nigeria’s Global Stance
Ozovehe commended Nigeria’s recent positions at the United Nations and African Union, urging stronger international action against terrorism.
He warned that opposing Israel’s right to self-defence risks emboldening violent groups instead of promoting peaceful resolutions.
Evidence of a Productive Partnership
The group cited joint projects in agriculture, irrigation, water management, construction, and medical training as proof of the benefits of Nigeria–Israel ties.
It also recalled the countries’ history of cooperation since establishing diplomatic relations in 1960.
Global and Regional Calls for Peace
According to the statement, even Arab nations like Qatar, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia are calling on Hamas to disarm and release hostages.
It argued that contrary calls within Nigeria were “misguided.”
Commitment to Prayer and Peacebuilding
The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to praying for peace in the Middle East.
It prayed for wisdom for world leaders, protection for civilians, justice, mercy, and the triumph of love over hatred.
