The Biafran Republic Government in Exile (BRGIE) has declared a renewed sense of hope for its quest for international recognition. This optimism follows a landmark diplomatic move by Israel to formally acknowledge Somaliland as an independent state.
A Diplomatic Precedent for Self-Determination
In a statement released on Tuesday, the BRGIE described Israel's decision as a major breakthrough for self-determination movements across Africa. The group, backed by separatist leader Simon Ekpa, is drawing direct parallels between Somaliland's long-standing sovereignty quest and its own campaign for an independent Biafra.
Acting Prime Minister of the movement, Nkere Ogechukwu, stated that this development reinforces their conviction. He believes that sustained diplomatic engagement, particularly in Washington, could produce a similar outcome for the Biafran cause.
"As the international community increasingly recognises new African states, such as Somaliland, we look forward to working closely with the U.S. government and the BRGIE to advance the establishment of an independent, pro-U.S. Biafran administration," the group said. They argue this would serve both U.S. strategic interests and the aspirations of the Biafran people.
Shifting Advocacy Strategy in Washington
Alongside this diplomatic optimism, the BRGIE announced significant changes to its lobbying structure in the United States. The group confirmed that its Washington-based lobbyist, Elias Gerasoulis, has departed from Moran Global Strategies.
Gerasoulis, who led the BRGIE's lobbying efforts since June 2024, has now established his own firm, Washington & Madison, LLC. The BRGIE stated that Acting Prime Minister Nkere Ogechukwu has formally retained this new firm to continue advocacy in the U.S. This new engagement began after the contract with Moran Global Strategies concluded on December 31, 2025.
The group credited Gerasoulis with facilitating crucial meetings with senior U.S. officials and international stakeholders. These engagements often focused on allegations of persecution against Christian and Biafran communities within Nigeria.
Legal Representation and Future Prospects
In a related development, the BRGIE confirmed the renewal of its legal services agreement with Arman Dabiri and The Law Office of Arman Dabiri & Associates, PLLC. This firm, which has represented the group since November 2024, will continue to serve as its international legal counsel in Washington.
The BRGIE highlighted that its legal team possesses extensive experience in sovereign representation. The firm has previously acted for governments including Libya, Sudan, Armenia, and Kazakhstan.
The core of the BRGIE's renewed hope rests on the case of Somaliland. Israel recently became the first United Nations member state to officially recognise the territory. Somaliland has functioned autonomously from Somalia since 1991, maintaining its own government, currency, and security forces for over three decades without formal international recognition.
The BRGIE believes that this shift indicates a growing acceptance of new African states by the global community. They are now banking on this precedent, combined with strategic lobbying and legal expertise, to finally gain global traction for the Biafran independence movement.
