FG Raises Alarm Over Red Sea Tensions, Warns Of Global Energy Crisis

The Federal Government has warned that rising tensions between Yemen’s Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia could disrupt Red Sea navigation and affect global oil supplies and maritime trade.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja on Monday, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said Nigeria remains neutral in the conflict but urged all sides to embrace dialogue and diplomacy.

Ebienfa said the growing tensions, alongside disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz and the Russia-Ukraine war, pose serious risks to global energy security and the world economy.

The Federal Government said attacks on commercial vessels, higher insurance costs, longer shipping routes and rising freight charges could push up crude oil prices and worsen challenges for developing countries.

Nigeria called on the Houthis, Saudi Arabia, Iran and the United States to exercise restraint and use diplomatic channels to resolve disputes and prevent further escalation.