Nigeria, Arab states reject Israel’s recognition of Somaliland as independent

Nigeria and several Arab countries have rejected Israel’s decision to recognise Somaliland as an independent state, reaffirming their support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it recognises only the Federal Government of Somalia as the legitimate authority representing the Somali people. The statement came hours after Israel formally recognised Somaliland, becoming the first country to do so.

Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after a prolonged conflict led by the Somali National Movement against the regime of Siad Barre. Although the region has operated with its own government, currency, security forces, and electoral system for more than three decades, it has not received broad international recognition. The United Nations and most countries continue to regard Somaliland as part of Somalia, which has consistently rejected its secession.

Nigeria’s position was outlined in a statement signed by Kimiebi Ebienta, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The government expressed “firm and unequivocal support” for Somalia’s sovereignty, unity, and statehood.

“Nigeria recognises the Government of Somalia as the legitimate authority representing the Somali people and commends its continued efforts to achieve peace, security, and national reconciliation amidst significant challenges,” the statement said.

It added that Somalia’s stability is critical to peace and security in the Horn of Africa and across the continent, and warned international actors against recognising any part of Somalia as an independent entity, saying such actions could worsen existing tensions.

Nigeria’s position was later reinforced in a joint statement issued by Jordan, Egypt, Algeria, Comoros, Djibouti, Gambia, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Maldives, Oman, Pakistan, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Sudan, Turkey, Yemen, and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

The group cautioned that recognising parts of existing states sets a dangerous precedent, undermines international peace and security, and violates the principles of international law and the United Nations Charter.

Earlier, Somalia’s Prime Minister, Hamza Abdi Barre, said his government “categorically and unequivocally” rejects Israel’s move, describing it as a direct violation of Somalia’s sovereignty.