Tinubu returns to Abuja after attending Riyadh Summit on Arab-Islamic cooperation

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja following his participation in the Riyadh Joint Arab-Islamic Summit in Saudi Arabia. His arrival at the presidential wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport was recorded at about 8:00 p.m.

President Tinubu departed Riyadh on Tuesday after a day of discussions with regional leaders. He had initially arrived in Saudi Arabia at King Abdulaziz International Airport on Sunday morning to attend the summit, held to strengthen Arab-Islamic cooperation.

At the summit, President Tinubu called for an immediate ceasefire in the Israel-Palestine conflict and emphasized the need for a peaceful resolution.

Addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, he urged an end to hostilities and advocated for a two-state solution that would allow Israelis and Palestinians to coexist in security and dignity.

Background

The Israel-Gaza conflict saw a significant escalation on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a surprise assault on Israel, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and the capture of around 251 hostages. This attack prompted a major Israeli retaliation, with an intensive bombing campaign aimed at dismantling Hamas.

Israel has stated it will continue operations until Hamas is dismantled, despite global calls for a ceasefire. The humanitarian situation in Gaza has worsened drastically; international health agencies report that more than 41,000 people, including women and children, have been killed. Resources such as food, water, and medical supplies are nearly exhausted.

A recent report warns that northern Gaza is on the brink of famine, with nearly half of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents facing starvation without immediate intervention.