Nigeria has formally requested the ECOWAS Commission to provide additional security protection for Guinea-Bissau’s Fernando Dia Da Costa, following the hijacked November 2025 general elections that plunged the country into fresh political turmoil.
In a letter dated November 30, 2025, Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Maitama Tuggar wrote to ECOWAS Commission President Omar Alieu Touray, citing “imminent threats” to Da Costa’s life.
The communication asked ECOWAS to activate its regional security mandate through the Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMB).
The Nigerian government confirmed that Da Costa will receive 24-hour security within the Nigerian Embassy in Bissau, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval.
Tuggar explained that the measure was sanctioned to ensure Da Costa’s safety during Guinea-Bissau’s volatile post-election period.
“His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has graciously approved the provision of protection and security in the premises of the Nigerian Embassy in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, for Mr. Fernando Dia Da Costa,” the minister stated.
He added that the move underscores Nigeria’s commitment to safeguarding democratic aspirations and reinforces its stabilization role in West Africa.
Request for Regional Backing
Beyond embassy protection, Tuggar urged ECOWAS to extend security cover through its stabilization mission.
“It would be appreciated if you would kindly mandate the ECOWAS Stabilization Support Mission in Guinea-Bissau (ESSMB) to provide him protection and security while in the premises of the Nigerian Embassy,” he wrote.
The request reflects Nigeria’s concern over Guinea-Bissau’s fragile political environment, where opposition figures often face heightened risks during election seasons.
Guinea-Bissau has a long history of electoral turbulence and repeated military interventions.
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