Nigeria Grants Asylum to Guinea-Bissau Presidential Candidate at Embassy

Abuja, Nigeria, December 2, 2025

The Federal Government of Nigeria has granted temporary asylum to Guinea-Bissau’s opposition presidential candidate, Fernando Dia Da Costa, providing him refuge within the Nigerian Embassy in Bissau following credible reports of threats to his life.

The decision was formally conveyed in a letter dated November 30, 2025, by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to the President of the ECOWAS Commission, underscoring Abuja’s concern over rising political tension in Guinea-Bissau ahead of the country’s presidential run-off election later this month.

Confirming the development, Al-Kasim Abdulkadir, Media Aide to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, said Nigeria’s action “falls squarely within Nigeria’s sovereign responsibility and its longstanding commitment to regional peace, stability, and democratic governance.”
According to Abdulkadir, the intervention is intended to help de-escalate tensions, promote social cohesion, and avert further instability in the already fragile West African sub-region.
“This action is guided solely by the imperatives of peace, human security, and regional stability, in full alignment with ECOWAS principles and Nigeria’s historic role as a stabilising force in West Africa,” he stated.

Mr. Da Costa, regarded as a leading contender in the upcoming run-off election, reportedly sought protection after facing escalating threats linked to the political environment. Nigeria’s decision to shelter him within its embassy highlights Abuja’s continued influence within ECOWAS and its readiness to act swiftly to safeguard democratic processes in neighbouring states.

The development is expected to draw significant regional attention as Guinea-Bissau prepares for what may become one of its most consequential elections in recent years.