In a swift and unequivocal diplomatic response, the Federal Republic of Nigeria has called on the international community to strictly respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Somalia.
This call comes just one day after Israel made the historic—and contentious—decision to recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state.
The Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a strong statement on Saturday, reaffirming its “unwavering commitment” to the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity enshrined in the United Nations and African Union (AU) charters.
“In this regard, Nigeria declares its firm and unequivocal support for the sovereignty, unity, and statehood of the Federal Republic of Somalia,” stated the release, signed by ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
The statement serves as a direct diplomatic counter to Israel’s Friday announcement, which saw Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu formalize recognition of Somaliland, a territory that has declared autonomy but remains internationally recognized as part of Somalia. Israel cited the move as being “in the spirit” of the Abraham Accords.
Nigeria’s declaration leaves no room for ambiguity, explicitly urging “international actors to desist from recognising any part of the territory of Somalia as an independent entity.” It warned that such actions “would only escalate the crisis and should be avoided.”
The Nigerian government recognized the Federal Government of Somalia in Mogadishu as the “legitimate authority representing the Somali people” and commended its efforts toward peace and national reconciliation. It further condemned “any actions or rhetoric that seek to undermine its constitutional order and territorial integrity.”
Aligning firmly with the African Union’s immediate condemnation of Israel’s move, Nigeria framed the issue as critical to continental stability. “The stability of Somalia is integral to the peace and security of the entire Horn of Africa region and the African continent at large,” the statement read.
Analysts view Nigeria’s prompt intervention as highly significant. As Africa’s most populous nation and a major continental power, its stance reinforces a foundational principle of the African Union: the inviolability of colonial-era borders.
This positions Nigeria as a leading voice in a brewing diplomatic standoff, rallying AU member states against unilateral recognitions that could redraw the map of the Horn of Africa.
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