The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with São Tomé and Príncipe, particularly in maritime security, the Nigeria-São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Zone (JDZ), trade and investment.
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, stated this while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the presidential inauguration of President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova for a second five-year term.
In a statement by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer for the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Matawalle said Nigeria remained committed to deepening cooperation with São Tomé and Príncipe.
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, the minister commended the people of São Tomé and Príncipe for conducting a peaceful, credible and transparent election.
According to him, “your victory reflects the confidence of the people in your leadership. Nigeria commends the Government, the National Electoral Commission, Political Parties, and the people of São Tomé and Príncipe for strengthening democratic institutions in your country,”
ALSO READ: FG to sanction FMC Abeokuta officials over alleged unprofessional conduct
President Tinubu, in a message conveyed by Matawalle, said Nigeria valued its longstanding friendship with São Tomé and Príncipe and was committed to expanding cooperation between the two countries.
“Nigeria values the longstanding friendship between our two countries. I therefore look forward to deepening cooperation in maritime security, the Nigeria-São Tomé and Príncipe JDZ, trade and investment, and other areas of mutual interest.”
The inauguration, held at the country’s Parliament Building, was attended by several African and European leaders and other dignitaries.
Among those present were the President of the Republic of Congo, Denis Sassou Nguesso; President of the Gabonese Republic, Brice Oligui Nguema; Prime Minister of Mozambique, Maria Benvinda Levy; representative of the Angolan Head of State and Angola’s Foreign Minister, Téte António; and Prime Minister of Morocco, Aziz Akhannouch, among others.
Matawalle said Nigeria remained committed to promoting peace, security and development in the Gulf of Guinea region.
He expressed the Federal Government’s readiness to re-establish and strengthen closer ties with São Tomé and Príncipe for the mutual benefit of both countries.
“His Excellency President Tinubu’s participation through representation reflects the historic ties of friendship, fraternity, solidarity and cooperation that continue to define relations between Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe,” the minister said.