By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Federal Government has reaffirmed its longstanding support for the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) and pledged to deepen bilateral cooperation in pursuit of peace, stability and sustainable development across Africa.
The commitment was made during a bilateral meeting in Abuja between the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs and African Affairs of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic, H.E. Mohamed Yeslem Beissat, who visited Nigeria as the Special Envoy of the Sahrawi government.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the meeting reviewed the longstanding relationship between both countries and explored ways to strengthen political dialogue and expand bilateral cooperation.
Enikanolaiye reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the principles of self-determination, decolonization and respect for the sanctity of colonial borders, in line with the objectives of the African Union.
He stressed that Nigeria remains committed to resolving regional challenges through peaceful dialogue and adherence to international law, while recalling that the country has consistently supported the recognition of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic since extending diplomatic recognition in 1984.
During the meeting, Beissat conveyed the goodwill of the Sahrawi leadership and presented a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He also expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent support for African causes and its principled position on issues affecting the continent.
Both countries agreed to explore new areas of cooperation, including capacity building, economic collaboration and people-to-people exchanges, as part of efforts to further strengthen bilateral relations.
The meeting ended with both ministers expressing optimism that the renewed engagement would reinforce the historic friendship and solidarity between Nigeria and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic while advancing the broader goals of African unity, peace and development.
