Nigeria Seeks Respect For Somalia’s Unity, Sovereignty

The Nigerian Government has reaffirmed its support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia.

Nigeria also warned regional and international actors against any actions that could undermine the Somalia’s constitutional order or recognise any part of its territory as an independent entity.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, stated this through a statement on Saturday.

The Nigerian government “Reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the principles of sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of all Member States of the United Nations and the African Union, as enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations and the Constitutive Act of
the African Union.”

In this regard, the Federal Government stated, “Nigeria declares its firm and unequivocal support for the sovereignty, unity, and statehood of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”

The federal government also formally recognised the Government of Somalia as “the legitimate authority representing the Somali people,” while commending its “continued efforts to achieve peace, security, and national reconciliation amidst significant challenges.”

It stressed that Nigeria “stands in solidarity with Somalia” and “strongly condemns any actions or rhetoric that seek to undermine its constitutional order and territorial integrity.”

Calling for restraint and responsibility from the international community, the Federal Government urged “all regional and international actors to strictly respect Somalia’s sovereignty and to support its institutions in their vital work of rebuilding a stable, prosperous, and resilient nation.”

Highlighting the broader regional implications, Nigeria said it believes “that the stability of Somalia is integral to the peace and security of the entire Horn of Africa region and the African continent at large,” adding that it remains committed to supporting Somalia “through multilateral frameworks and international cooperation.”

The government further warned against external recognition of separatist claims within Somalia and urged international actors to desist from recognising any part of the territory of Somalia as an independent entity,” noting that “such actions would only escalate the crisis and should be avoided.”