In a recent announcement, Francisca Omayuli, the Spokesperson for Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, clarified the country’s absence and representation at the signing of the Samoa Agreement. The ministry emphasized a meticulous examination of the accord, which supersedes the 2000 Cotonou Agreement, prior to any decision on endorsement. This cautious approach aims to ensure compliance with Nigeria’s domestic laws.
Civil Society Organisations previously expressed apprehension about the potential alignment of Nigeria with the European Union’s (EU) efforts to encourage African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) nations to join an LGBT agreement. Reports unveiled several meetings orchestrated by the EU and ACP representatives, intending to urge ACP leaders to sign the contentious LGBT accord. Notably, sessions in Brussels on November 28, 2022, and from June 19 to 28, 2023, sought to intensify pressure on ACP Ministers and heads of governments.
Omayuli’s statement clarified the Nigerian government’s stance, highlighting the scope of the Samoa Agreement. Encompassing six key areas—Human Rights, Democracy and Governance, Peace and Security, Human and Social Development, Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change, Inclusive Sustainable Economic Growth, and Development, Migration, and Mobility—the agreement replaces its predecessor, the Cotonou Agreement (2000).
“The Federal Government of Nigeria wasn’t present at the Samoa Agreement’s Signing Ceremony on November 15, 2023, thus refraining from signing the Agreement. Stakeholders in Nigeria are currently evaluating the Instrument to ensure its alignment with the country’s laws,” reiterated Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
