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The Federal Government of Nigeria has clarified that the recent signing of the Samoa Agreement with the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) does not undermine the country’s sovereignty.
In a statement, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, assured citizens that the agreement was signed after extensive reviews and consultations to ensure that it aligns with Nigeria’s interests and laws.
“The Samoa Agreement is a partnership agreement aimed at promoting sustainable development, combating climate change, generating investment opportunities, and enhancing collaboration among OACPS member states,” the Minister explained.
He added that the agreement does not compromise Nigeria’s laws or interests, including the existing legislation against same-sex relationships.
The government’s clarification comes amidst misconceptions and misinformation about the agreement’s implications on Nigeria’s sovereignty.
“The President Bola Tinubu Administration is committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting the country’s interests in international agreements,” the Minister assured.
The statement read: “The signing ceremony took place on June 28, 2024, at the OACPS Secretariat in Brussels, Belgium.
The agreement aims to promote sustainable development, combat climate change, generate investment opportunities, and enhance collaboration among OACPS member states.
The Samoa Agreement, which has 103 articles, was negotiated over several years, starting in 2018. It comprises a common foundational compact and three regional protocols, addressing specific issues in Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.
Nigeria’s signing of the agreement followed extensive reviews and consultations by an interministerial committee, ensuring that none of its provisions contravene the country’s constitution or laws.
A Statement of Declaration was also issued, clarifying Nigeria’s understanding and context of the agreement.
The government has assured citizens that the agreement will not compromise Nigeria’s laws or interests, including the existing legislation against same-sex relationships. The Minister emphasized that the President Bola Tinubu Administration is committed to upholding the rule of law and promoting the country’s interests in international agreements.
The Samoa Agreement is expected to foster cooperation and development among OACPS member states and the EU, promoting economic growth, human and social development, peace, and security.”
