NBA Refutes LGBTQ Rights Condition in $150bn Samoa Deal

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has recently addressed the controversy surrounding the Samoa agreement, making it clear that Nigeria does not recognize same-sex marriage. This announcement was made on Monday by NBA President Yakubu Maikyau. 
 
There has been a widespread misunderstanding concerning the Samoa agreement and its implications for LGBTQ rights in Nigeria. Specifically, there have been concerns that acceptance of gay rights is a prerequisite for receiving a $150 billion loan under this contract. However, according to Maikyau, these claims are unfounded as no such provision exists within the agreement. 
 
He clarified that "the agreement was expressly made subject to local laws and the sovereignty of contracting nations." The NBA president further stated that "the SAMOA Agreement recognizes Nigeria's Same Sex Marriage (Prohibition) Act 2023 and upholds the supremacy of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999." 
 
Maikyau further emphasized that any belief suggesting otherwise is incorrect; he assured Nigerians: "To avoid any doubt, let me state categorically: The SAMOA Agreement does not seek to compromise our existing legislation or undermine our national sovereignty.” 
 
Before signing this international accord known as the SAMOA Agreement, named after Samoa, where it was initially signed, due diligence was carried out by relevant stakeholders, including the NBA, at the request of the Honorable Minister of Budget and Economic Planning. A committee led by Mr. Olawale Fapohunda, SAN, evaluated and advised on terms contained within said pact. 
 
According to the Osun Defender news portal reportage about this issue, “The SAMOA Agreement serves as a legal framework between European Union member states plus over half members belonging to the to the Organisation African Caribbean Pacific States (OACPS), setting the groundwork specific agreements involving the EU, the Federal Government of Nigeria, and sub-national private sector entities." 
 
This comprehensive treaty covers six main areas, which include democracy, human rights, sustainable economic growth, development, and climate change. human social development, peace, security, migration, and mobility, respectively. 
 
Channels TV reported on Tuesday that these are the key areas of focus in the agreement. Maikyau, therefore, called upon the government to intensify efforts towards public enlightenment about this agreement and its implications. He also urged other stakeholders to join forces in countering the negative perceptions being promoted concerning this international accord. 
 
In conclusion, it is important for Nigerians to understand that their laws and sovereignty remain intact despite signing such international agreements. The NBA has reassured citizens that no external influence will compromise existing legislation or undermine Nigeria's sovereignty as a nation. This clarification from one of Nigeria's highest legal authorities should help quell any misconceptions surrounding the Samoa Agreement and promote better understanding among all parties involved.