The Federal Government of Nigeria has firmly restated its support for the sovereignty, territorial integrity and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia, warning international actors against recognising any part of Somali territory as an independent state.
In a press release issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria said its position is anchored on the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Constitutive Act of the African Union (AU), which emphasise respect for the sovereignty and political independence of member states.
“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 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,” the statement read.
“In this regard, Nigeria declares its firm and unequivocal support for the sovereignty, unity, and statehood of the Federal Republic of Somalia.”
Nigeria also reaffirmed its recognition of the Government of Somalia as the sole legitimate authority representing the Somali people, commending its efforts to achieve peace, security and national reconciliation despite persistent challenges.
“Nigeria stands in solidarity with Somalia and strongly condemns any actions or rhetoric that seek to undermine its constitutional order and territorial integrity,” the statement added.
On Friday, Israel officially recognised the Republic of Somaliland. But Nigeria cautioned that recognising any breakaway entity within Somalia would only deepen instability in the Horn of Africa. “The Government of Nigeria urges international actors to desist from recognising any part of the territory of Somalia as an independent entity. Such actions would only escalate the crisis and should be avoided,” it said.
Nigeria further stressed that Somalia’s stability is central to regional and continental security, noting that insecurity in the Horn of Africa has far-reaching implications. “We believe 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,” the statement said, adding that Nigeria remains committed to supporting Somalia through multilateral frameworks and international cooperation.
Nigeria’s position aligns with the long-standing stance of the African Union, which has consistently upheld Somalia’s territorial integrity and rejected unilateral declarations of independence within the country. The AU has repeatedly maintained that Somaliland remains an integral part of the Federal Republic of Somalia, stressing that any change to Somalia’s status must come through constitutional and inclusive political processes.
The AU Peace and Security Council has previously warned that recognising breakaway regions could set a dangerous precedent across Africa, undermining regional stability and encouraging secessionist movements on the continent.
