U.S.-Iran War: AU warns Nigeria, other African countries at economic risk

“For African economies, the consequences are immediate,” he said.

Oyindamola Olubajo • May 5, 2026

African Union

The African Union Commission has warned that Iran’s reported attacks on the United Arab Emirates and disruptions to the Strait of Hormuz threaten stability in the Gulf and African economies.

AUC chairperson Mahmoud Youssouf expressed concern that renewed drone and missile attacks would worsen inflation and economic vulnerability.

The warning follows allegations by the UAE that Iran attacked the eastern emirate of Fujairah. The country said its air defences had shot down four Iranian drones and 15 missiles.

However, a spokesperson for the Khatam al-Anbiya Central headquarters denied the allegations, stating Iran had not launched attacks against the UAE in recent days.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei had accused the UAE of “support for and cooperation with the aggressors against Iran.”

“These developments risk further destabilising the region and have direct and serious repercussions on global energy markets,” the AUC chair warned on Tuesday.

Mr Youssouf added, “For African economies, the consequences are immediate, with rising fuel prices, increased inflationary pressures, and heightened economic vulnerability.”

The chairman called for the immediate cessation of attacks, freedom of navigation, and respect for international law.

He also urged dialogue and diplomatic solutions, reaffirming the AU’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and to reducing the economic impact of the crisis on African countries.

Global oil supply has been disrupted since the Iran war began on February 28, with the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for crude oil shipments, driving oil prices to $125 per barrel.

On Monday, Iran said it carried out attacks on U.S. Navy ships in the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. said it struck seven Iranian military boats during the same escalation.

Meanwhile, the U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said the ceasefire, which began on April 8, is not over, despite tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.

He told reporters on Tuesday that President Donald Trump will decide when it ends.

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.