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

The decision was formally communicated in a letter dated November 30, 2025, from Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to the President of the ECOWAS Commission. Al-Kasim Abdulkadir, Media Aide to the Minister, confirmed the move, noting that the action aligns with Nigeria’s sovereign responsibility and its longstanding commitment to regional peace, stability, and democratic governance.

Abdulkadir explained that granting refuge to Mr. Da Costa is aimed at de-escalating tensions in Guinea-Bissau, promoting social cohesion, and preventing further instability in the 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 said.

The development comes ahead of Guinea-Bissau’s presidential run-off election scheduled later this month, in which Mr. Da Costa is a leading contender, highlighting Nigeria’s proactive role in ensuring democratic processes and security in the region.