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Nigeria reaffirms support for Somalia’s sovereignty amid Israel–Somaliland move
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Arab countries, OIC warn recognition threatens Horn of Africa stability
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Somalia condemns action as violation of international law
Nigeria and several Arab countries have jointly rejected Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, insisting that Somalia remains the only legitimate authority representing the Somali people.
Nigeria’s stance was outlined in a statement issued on Saturday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, hours after Israel announced its recognition of Somaliland, a self-governing region that declared independence from Somalia in 1991.
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Although Somaliland operates with its own government, currency, security forces and conducts elections, it has not received formal international recognition.
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The United Nations and most countries continue to regard the territory as an integral part of Somalia, a position Mogadishu has consistently maintained.
In the statement signed by Kimiebi Ebienta, spokesperson of the ministry, Nigeria declared its unwavering support for Somalia’s unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity, stressing that peace in Somalia is critical to stability across the Horn of Africa and the wider continent.
The federal government urged the international community to refrain from recognising any part of Somalia as an independent entity, warning that such actions could worsen tensions and undermine ongoing efforts at peace and reconciliation.
Nigeria’s position was echoed in a joint declaration issued by several countries, including Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Qatar, Iran, Pakistan, and others, alongside the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
The group cautioned that recognising breakaway territories sets a dangerous precedent, violates international law, and threatens global peace and security.
Reacting earlier, Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, strongly condemned Israel’s decision, describing it as a deliberate assault on Somalia’s sovereignty and a breach of established international norms.
