Reps Demands Settlement of Nigeria’s €1.1 Million OACPS-EU Debt

The Nigerian House of Representatives has urged the federal government to immediately settle Nigeria’s outstanding €1.1 million obligation to the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States-European Union to prevent potential sanctions and diplomatic embarrassment.

The motion, presented by Deputy Chief Whip Isiaka Ibrahim during Tuesday’s plenary session, highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding OACPS membership and the organisation’s role in fostering development cooperation among 79 member states.

Nigeria has historically benefited from substantial assistance through the OACPS-EU partnership, particularly under the Cotonou Agreement spanning 2000-2020. “Despite Nigeria’s substantial engagement with the OACPS, including access to over 1.7 billion in developmental grants and investments, funds through the previous OACPS-European Union from the Kotonu Agreement, year 2000 to year 2020, Nigeria’s outstanding contribution remains unpaid,” Ibrahim stated.

The lawmaker expressed concern that unpaid dues risk immediate OACPS Secretariat sanctions, potentially affecting Nigeria’s ongoing and future organizational participation. Such sanctions could undermine diplomatic standing and reduce access to critical development resources and partnerships.

“Nigeria’s continued participation in the OACPS-European Union partnership holds immense prospects for additional resources, trade opportunities and diplomatic benefits. It is of utmost importance that Nigeria regularizes its dues,” he added.

The House mandated its Committees on Finance, National Planning and Economic Development, and Debts and Loans Management to conduct comprehensive reviews of Nigeria’s OACPS-EU participation benefits and risks.

These committees must ensure the Federal Ministry of Finance urgently disburses outstanding amounts, particularly referencing correspondence E-1068-S2-11-391 dated January 28, 2025, from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. The committees have two weeks to report findings and recommendations for further legislative action.