Nigeria Somalia, and Somaliland territorial integrity
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Nigeria has made its position clear on the global stage regarding the brewing diplomatic storm in the Horn of Africa. The Federal Government of Nigeria officially reaffirmed its unwavering support for the sovereignty and unity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. This announcement comes on the heels of a major geopolitical shift after Israel became the first nation to formally recognize the breakaway region of Somaliland as an independent state.
In a statement released through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja on Sunday, December 28, 2025, Nigeria joined a growing list of nations calling for the respect of existing borders and the constitutional order of the Somali people.
The timing of this declaration is critical. For decades, the international community has largely viewed Somalia as a unified entity, despite Somaliland operating with its own government and currency since 1991.
Nigeria, as a leading voice in the African Union, has always been sensitive to matters of secession and territorial fragmentation. Our own history as a nation has taught us the value of keeping a country together, and this latest move by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shows that the government is not ready to see a “dangerous precedent” set on the continent.
Nigeria Joins Global Voices In Rejecting Recognition Of Somaliland
The statement signed by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, was direct and focused. Nigeria declared its firm and unequivocal support for the statehood of Somalia, recognizing the government in Mogadishu as the only legitimate authority.
This move places Nigeria in alignment with a coalition of over 20 Arab and Islamic nations that have all condemned the recent recognition of Somaliland. By taking this stance, Nigeria is emphasizing that the stability of the entire continent depends on respecting the principles of the United Nations Charter and the African Union Constitutive Act.
Many observers were surprised by the sudden announcement from Israel regarding Somaliland, but the response from Abuja was swift. Nigeria warned that any unilateral attempt to recognize a part of a sovereign state as an independent entity would only lead to further crisis.
The Federal Government urged all international actors to desist from any actions that could undermine the peace and reconciliation efforts currently being led by the Somali leadership. For Nigeria, this is not just about a distant conflict; it is about protecting the “intangibility of borders” that holds the African continent together.
Why The Federal Government Is Standing Firm With Somalia
The logic behind the Nigerian position is rooted in long standing diplomatic principles. Nigeria believes that the stability of Somalia is integral to the security of the Horn of Africa and, by extension, the entire African continent.
If one breakaway region is recognized today, it could trigger a domino effect where other separatist movements across Africa feel emboldened to seek foreign recognition. This is a scenario that the Federal Government wants to avoid at all costs. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Nigeria stands in solidarity with the Somali people as they navigate their internal challenges.
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Furthermore, Nigeria’s commitment to the Nigeria Somalia Somaliland territorial integrity debate is about upholding international law.
The government pointed out that any move that disrupts the constitutional order of a member state of the AU is a violation of the rules that govern our international relations.
By supporting Mogadishu, Nigeria is sending a message that it values the collective will and aspirations of a unified Somali nation over the interests of a separatist entity, regardless of who is backing them.
Diplomatic Implications Of Israel’s Unprecedented Move In Africa
Israel’s recognition of Somaliland on December 26, 2025, has introduced a new layer of tension into African and Middle Eastern diplomacy. While Somaliland has enjoyed relative peace and has been functioning like a state for over 30 years, no other country had taken the step of formal recognition until now.
This move has been described by some as an interference in the internal affairs of Somalia. Nigeria’s rejection of this recognition is part of a broader African consensus that views such actions as a threat to regional stability.
The Federal Government’s statement highlighted that such diplomatic maneuvers could imported regional and international hostilities into Africa. There are concerns that the Horn of Africa could become a theater for proxy conflicts if foreign powers begin to pick and choose which regions they recognize.
Nigeria’s role here is to act as a stabilizing force, reminding the world that the African Union is the primary body for resolving continental disputes. The message is clear: if you want to engage with Somalia, you must do so through the recognized federal government in Mogadishu.
Protecting Continental Stability And Respecting Border Limits
As we look toward the future of African diplomacy in 2026, the Nigeria Somalia, and Somaliland territorial integrity issue will likely remain a focal point. Nigeria has pledged to continue supporting Somalia through multilateral platforms and international cooperation. This includes supporting the Somali government’s efforts in national reconciliation and security. The goal is to build a stable and resilient nation that can contribute to the prosperity of the continent without the threat of fragmentation.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s firm stance is a reminder that sovereignty is a red line that should not be crossed. The Federal Government’s call for international actors to respect Somalia’s borders is a move to prevent a scramble for recognition that could lead to chaos.
As a big brother on the continent, Nigeria is taking its responsibility seriously, ensuring that the principles of unity and territorial integrity remain the bedrock of our foreign policy. We wait to see how the rest of the international community responds, but for now, Abuja has spoken, and its voice is one of unity and peace.
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