FG to ratify Samoa treaty after FEC, NEC approval – Bagudu

By Kunle Sanni

The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, has announced that the recently agreed treaty between Nigeria, the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS), and the European Union (EU) will require formal government ratification before it becomes effective.

Bagudu clarified that the Samoa Treaty will take effect following approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC), National Executive Council (NEC), and the National Assembly.

“Ratification of the Agreement after due consideration/approval by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), National Executive Council (NEC), and National Assembly,” Bagudu stated.

In response to widespread criticism regarding Nigeria’s participation in the signing of the Samoa Agreement, Bagudu emphasized that the treaty is focused solely on economic development and not on social issues.

Many Nigerians on social media have expressed concerns, suggesting the agreement could be a covert introduction of LGBTQ campaigns in the country.

However, the federal government has firmly debunked these claims, stating that the agreement does not contain any provisions for same-sex marriage.

The minister also announced the establishment of structures to monitor the implementation of the Agreement, which will be conducted in collaboration with Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and other interest groups.

This initiative aims to ensure that the treaty’s provisions are followed and that it benefits Nigeria’s development cooperation with the EU beyond mere financial aid.

Bagudu urged the public to seek information from relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for clarity on the comprehensive, multi-sectoral aspects of the Agreement.

“The OACPS – EU Partnership is one of the most diverse and multifaceted development pacts in the international system. It is therefore pertinent for the public to consult the relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) for clarity on the far-reaching issues relating to the multi-sectoral provisions of the Agreements,” he said.

The government’s proactive stance on the treaty’s ratification and its commitment to transparency reflect a significant step toward fostering Nigeria’s international economic partnerships while addressing public concerns.

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