The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to promptly pay an outstanding debt of €1,119,979.86 owed to the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS). The directive followed the adoption of a motion on urgent public importance, sponsored by the Majority Whip, Hon. Isiaka Ibrahim, during Tuesday’s plenary session.

Hon. Ibrahim noted Nigeria’s active membership in OACPS, an international organisation that promotes development cooperation, trade, and diplomatic relations among its member states.

He pointed out that Nigeria has benefited from various development interventions facilitated through OACPS, which have contributed to the country’s national development goals.

The lawmaker stressed that under section 5 of the OACPS Sanction Policy, member states are required to meet their financial obligations promptly to maintain active participation and avoid sanctions. According to available records, Nigeria’s cumulative assessed contribution stands at €1,119,979.86.

The House expressed concern over Nigeria’s failure to clear these dues despite access to over €1.7 billion in development grants and investment funds from the previous OACPS-EU Cotonou Agreement covering 2000 to 2020. The lawmakers warned that continued non-payment could lead to Nigeria’s suspension from the organisation, jeopardising ongoing and future collaborations.

“This failure to remit outstanding contributions risks undermining Nigeria’s diplomatic standing and reducing access to critical development resources and partnerships,” Hon. Ibrahim said.

The House emphasised the strategic importance of Nigeria’s continued participation in the OACPS-EU partnership, citing its potential for additional resources, trade opportunities, and diplomatic advantages. To protect these interests, the lawmakers urged the Federal Government to regularise the outstanding payments without delay.

Consequently, the House mandated the joint Committees on Finance, National Planning and Economic Development, and Debts and Loan Management to undertake a detailed review of the benefits and risks associated with Nigeria’s engagement in the OACPS-EU partnership.

Additionally, the Federal Ministry of Finance was directed to expedite the payment of the outstanding €1,119,979.86, as referenced in a January 20, 2025 letter from the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning.

The committees have been instructed to ensure compliance and report back to the House within two weeks for further legislative action.