Tinubu returns to Abuja after summit in Saudi

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja following his participation in the recently concluded extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The president touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at around 8 p.m., where he was met by senior government officials.

Among those welcoming him were Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun, and the National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje.

During his address at the summit, President Tinubu urged world leaders to move beyond rhetoric and take decisive action to end the violence engulfing Gaza.

Stressing the importance of adhering to international norms, he called for measures that respect the principles of proportionality and the rights of civilians amidst the ongoing conflict.

“In a rules-based international order, States have the right of self-defence. But self-defence must take proportionality into account, in line with global legal, diplomatic – and moral – frameworks.

An entire civilian population, their dreams and futures, cannot be dismissed as collateral,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing the moral responsibility of global leaders to protect innocent lives.

Foreign policy experts have commended President Tinubu’s speech for highlighting a balanced approach to conflict resolution.

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Dr. Amina Yusuf, an international relations analyst, noted, “President Tinubu’s emphasis on proportionality reflects a significant call for global powers to evaluate the human cost of their strategies.

This statement positions Nigeria as a voice advocating for humane approaches within international diplomacy.”

Professor Sani Ahmed, a political science lecturer, added that Tinubu’s participation underscores Nigeria’s reassertion of its role as a mediator on critical global issues.

“The president’s stance aligns with Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to peace and its historical engagement in peacekeeping efforts, from Africa to the broader international stage,” he said.

The extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit convened world leaders and representatives from across the Islamic world to deliberate on pressing global issues, with the Gaza crisis taking center stage.

President Tinubu’s call for proportionate measures was among the key messages urging collaborative efforts to halt the cycle of violence and prioritize civilian safety.

The summit concluded with leaders reaffirming the need for diplomatic efforts and negotiations aimed at achieving long-term peace in the region.

Tinubu’s remarks have been seen as contributing to the discourse advocating for strategic peace-building and the reinforcement of international legal standards in conflict management.

As President Tinubu resumes his duties in Abuja, his administration continues to navigate complex domestic and international challenges, with observers keenly watching how Nigeria’s foreign policy evolves under his leadership amidst volatile global dynamics.