Quick Summary:
Nigeria condemns the military coup in Guinea-Bissau, urging immediate restoration of democracy and pledging cooperation with ECOWAS and AU to restore constitutional governance.
Nigeria Reacts to Guinea-Bissau Coup
The Federal Government of Nigeria has strongly condemned the military coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau, which took place on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
Nigeria’s position aligns with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union (AU), both of which have denounced the coup as a serious threat to regional stability and democratic governance.
FG Calls Coup an Unacceptable Violation
In a statement issued through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, the Nigerian government described the military takeover as an “unacceptable violation of constitutional rule” and a direct assault on democratic institutions.
The statement demanded the immediate restoration of constitutional order, urging the coup leaders to respect the results of the recent elections and release all detained officials.
Abuja also called for restraint, peaceful dialogue, and respect for democratic processes, emphasizing that those responsible for the coup would be held accountable.
Concern for Detained Officials and Observers
Nigeria expressed particular concern for the safety of detained officials, including deposed President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, and international election observers, among them former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan.
The government urged the military junta to ensure their well-being and immediate release, warning that any harm to them would further isolate Guinea-Bissau from the international community.
Nigeria Pledges Regional Cooperation
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to working with ECOWAS, the AU, and international partners to restore constitutional governance in Guinea-Bissau.
It also reiterated Nigeria’s zero-tolerance policy for unconstitutional changes of government in West Africa, stressing that democracy remains the only legitimate path to leadership.
Military Appoints Interim Leader
Following the coup, the Guinea-Bissau military announced the appointment of General Horta N’Ta as interim transitional president for a one-year period.
The move has been widely criticized by regional bodies, which insist that civilian rule must be restored immediately and that ECOWAS sanctions could follow if the junta fails to comply.
