Former senator and media mogul Ben Murray-Bruce has predicted that a third world war is imminent but said Nigeria and Africa would be safe from its devastation.

Murray-Bruce made the declaration during an interview with American political strategist Dane Waters.

“I see World War III coming. I don’t think there’s anything we can do to stop it,” the 68-year-old said.

He cited global instability, the widespread availability of weapons and the presence of impulsive world leaders as factors pointing towards another major war.

“You have nuclear weapons, you have arms everywhere. Everybody has a gun. It’s a scary world. You have leaders who are impulsive, trigger-happy. I see a world war coming and it’s going to be terrible,” he added.

Despite the grim forecast, the Silverbird Group founder said Africa, particularly Nigeria, would be spared.

“We’re not fighting anybody. We don’t have nuclear weapons. We’re not invading anybody. We’re not attacking anybody. We’re friends with all our West African neighbours,” he said.

Murray-Bruce went further to predict that Africa could become a safe haven for people fleeing the war.

“When the world war happens, people are going to look for a safe haven, and the only place safe will be Africa. Nigerians will open our arms and welcome everybody.

“You’re all going to be in Nigeria. Americans will be in Nigeria. Israelis will be in Nigeria. Iranians will be in Nigeria. But you all have your visas before you come. We don’t want you to come as immigrants. But we’re going to treat you well. You’ll live in Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Banana Island. You’re welcome.”

The former Bayelsa East senator served in the National Assembly from 2015 to 2019.

He is also known for his strong social media advocacy and involvement in pan-African media development through the Silverbird Group.

Murray-Bruce’s comment comes amid rising global tensions including the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war and escalating hostilities between Israel and Iran, with fears these could draw in larger powers.

International observers have also warned about the growing risk of armed conflict fueled by nuclear proliferation and increasingly polarised global politics.