President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Guinea Bissau to attend the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, this visit follows Tinubu’s recent participation at the summit on “A New Global Financing Pact” in Paris, France, which was hosted by President Emmanuel Macron.
During his time in Guinea Bissau, Tinubu took the opportunity to visit the Nigerian contingent stationed there as part of the ECOWAS Stabilisation Force.
During his speech, the President expressed his admiration for the soldiers and their Commander, Gen. Al-Hassan Grema, lauding their commitment and contributions to both Nigeria and their host nation. He emphasized Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to supporting democracy not only in West Africa but also globally.
“I am here to show solidarity with you. I want to assure you we are committed to supporting peace and democracy not only in West Africa but around the world.
“Nigeria is a giant that has made its mark in Sierra Leone and Liberia and other places. We count on your support for the defence of constitutional order.
“I heard your allowances have been paid up to date. Nothing else should make you angry. We will continue to build a virile force.
“We are proud of you. Proud of your loyalty. Nigeria depends on you. There will be peace and progress in our country,” Tinubu said.
Grema conveyed the gratitude of the troops to Tinubu, acknowledging him as the first Commander-in-Chief in Nigeria’s history to personally visit soldiers stationed beyond the country’s borders.
During his stay in Guinea Bissau, the Nigerian leader is slated to participate in bilateral meetings and other engagements alongside the Summit.
Accompanying the President are Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, Dr. Folashodun Shonubi, the Acting Governor of the Central Bank, and former governors Abubakar Bagudu (Kebbi), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), and Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa).
The upcoming 63rd Ordinary Session Summit, commencing on Sunday, marks the President’s first international engagement within the African continent.
During the summit, the 16 regional leaders will address critical sub-regional matters encompassing security, trade, and democratic governance, particularly focusing on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. Memoranda concerning these issues will be presented and discussed.