Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has defended the controversial oil exploration agreement recently signed with Turkey.
President Mohamud called the deal a mutual partnership that serves Somalia’s interests, despite a wave of criticism that spread quickly across social media platforms.
He described the deal with Turkey as a historic first, marking the beginning of official efforts to explore Somalia’s untapped energy sector.
“Oil exploration is already happening offshore,” President Mohamud said. “Now, with this deal, exploration will begin along Somalia’s coastal areas.”
He said Turkey was not given exclusive rights by default, but no other country had formally requested oil exploration rights in Somalia.
He added, “This is not about favoring Turkey. Rather, Turkey is the first to step up and show real commitment to invest.”
He praised Turkey as a true partner, noting its willingness to engage where others remain hesitant due to security and investment risks.
Controversy erupted after Nordic magazine published leaked documents, showing Turkey would receive 90% of revenue during the early phases.
Somalia would only get 5% of the revenue until Turkey recovered its exploration and production costs, According to the Nordic.
This sparked outrage on social media, with some opposition politicians accusing the Somali government of giving away the nation’s resources.
They argue that Somalia’s oil and gas wealth should primarily benefit Somalis, not be heavily diverted to foreign investors.
In response, President Mohamud said Turkey’s 90% share is temporary and strictly to recover expenses from exploration and oil production.
After cost recovery is complete, he said Somalia will fully manage and benefit from its oil resources without foreign interference.
Turkey is investing millions of dollars at its own risk, including in exploration, equipment, and training.
Despite reassurances, many Somali citizens demanded more transparency and national oversight.
For now, Somalia embarks on a new phase of oil exploration, with Turkey as its first committed partner in this critical national venture.
