JUST IN: Nigerian Law on Same-Sex Marriage Prevails Over Samoa Agreement, Confirms FG

In a recent statement, the Federal Government of Nigeria confirmed its commitment to national laws prohibiting same-sex marriage, even after signing the Samoa Agreement. This development has sparked significant debate given the agreement’s clauses that require underdeveloped and developing nations to support the LGBT community’s calls for recognition in exchange for financial and other support from advanced societies.

Named after the Pacific Island Samoa, where it was originally signed, the agreement has garnered both support and opposition. Countries with strong Islamic and Christian values, like Nigeria, have expressed concerns over the potential cultural and religious implications.

Amid the controversy, Minister of Information Mohammed Idris provided further clarity on the matter. He stated, “On 28 June 2024, Nigeria signed the Samoa Agreement at the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) Secretariat in Brussels, Belgium. This partnership agreement involves the EU and its Member States on one side, and OACPS members on the other.”

Idris explained that negotiations for the agreement began in 2018 during the 73rd United Nations General Assembly. The agreement, signed in Apia, Samoa, on 15 November 2018, includes 103 articles that outline a foundational compact and three regional protocols: Africa-EU, Caribbean-EU, and Pacific-EU. Each protocol addresses specific regional issues.

The African Regional Protocol, relevant to Nigeria, covers inclusive and sustainable economic growth, human and social development, environmental management, peace and security, human rights, governance, and migration.

“Nigeria’s signing of the agreement on 28 June 2024 followed extensive reviews by an Interministerial Committee, ensuring alignment with the 1999 Constitution and other national laws,” said Idris. He emphasized that Nigeria’s endorsement was accompanied by a declaration clarifying that any inconsistent provisions would be invalid under Nigerian law. The country’s legislation against same-sex relationships, enacted in 2014, remains in effect.

The Minister assured citizens that the Tinubu administration is committed to protecting Nigeria’s interests and upholding its legal framework. “The Samoa Agreement is a vital legal framework for cooperation with the EU, aiming to promote sustainable development, combat climate change, generate investment opportunities, and foster international collaboration among OACPS members,” he concluded.

The government’s clarification aims to reassure Nigerians that national laws will not be compromised by international agreements.