The Federal Government has revealed that the Samoa agreement was signed in the best interest of Nigeria.
The government added that the agreement was signed after extensive reviews and consultations by an Interministerial Committee convened by the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning (FMBEP) in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and the Federal Ministry of Justice (FMOJ) and is targeted towards generating investment opportunities, and fostering collaboration among Nigeria and other nations.
This was disclosed on Thursday night by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, in response to the controversy and backlash surrounding the news of the signing.
There were concerns that the agreement endorsed LGBTQ rights in Nigeria.
Idris, however, explained that the signed agreement does not contravene any law in Nigeria, and the government has not in any way endorsed LGBTQ rights, which are illegal in the country by signing the agreement.
The Minister submitted that Nigeria’s endorsement was accompanied by a Statement of Declaration, dated June 26, 2024, clarifying that any provision inconsistent with Nigerian laws shall be invalid.
“In addition, Nigeria’s endorsement was accompanied by a Statement of Declaration, dated June 26, 2024, clarifying that any provision inconsistent with Nigerian laws shall be invalid.
“It is important to note that there is existing legislation against same-sex relationships in Nigeria, enacted in 2014,” Idris stated.
He assured that the government of President Tinubu would not enter into any international agreement detrimental to the country’s interests, and that officials involved in the negotiations strictly adhered to the mandates exchanged in 2018 between the European Union (EU) and the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS).
“The Samoa Agreement is a vital legal framework for cooperation between the OACPS and the European Union, aimed at promoting sustainable development, combating climate change, generating investment opportunities, and fostering collaboration among OACPS Member States on the international stage,” Idris added.
Meanwhile, Nigerians have taken to social media to criticize the government over the controversial agreement.
See Reactions below:
@General_Oluchi wrote: “History was made today as BATidiots dropped their hatred to embrace LGBTQ for Tinubu. We are making progress small small…”
@Waspapping_ tweeted: “A Christian President didn’t attempt to legalize LGBTQ in Nigeria, but now, a Muslim President and Vice President are trying to do so. Innalillahi wa inna ilaihir rajiun”.
@kunmydrey noted: “I would love to sponsor a LGBTQ flag to be flown over National Mosque, Abuja, Nigeria. Let us celebrate the New deal that was signed by the Muslim-Muslim ticket.Our Muslim brothers did well by bringing LGBTQ to Nigeria. Love Wins”
