President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Arrives in Guinea-Bissau for ECOWAS Summit and Visits Nigerian Troops
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recently arrived in Bissau, the capital of Guinea-Bissau, to participate in the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This significant diplomatic engagement marks President Tinubu's first international event within the continent since his inauguration. The announcement was made by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications, and Strategy, in a statement released on Saturday evening.
During his visit, President Tinubu also took the opportunity to meet with Nigerian troops stationed in Guinea-Bissau. He expressed his deep appreciation and gratitude to the soldiers and their Commander, General Al-Hassan Grema, for their unwavering dedication and service to Nigeria and their host country. President Tinubu emphasized Nigeria's commitment to supporting peace and democracy in West Africa and worldwide.
In the upcoming 63rd Ordinary Session Summit, set to commence on July 9, 2023, the region's 16 leaders will address crucial matters affecting the continent. These include discussions on implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and reviewing the transition status in the Republics of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. Additionally, there will be deliberations on the ECOWAS Single Currency Programme and finding solutions to the obstacles hindering the free movement of goods along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor.
President Tinubu's visit to Guinea-Bissau demonstrates Nigeria's strong support for democracy and regional stability. He assured the troops of Nigeria's unwavering commitment to their welfare and emphasized the crucial role they play in maintaining peace and progress. President Tinubu expressed his pride in their loyalty and acknowledged Nigeria's significant contributions to peacekeeping efforts in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and other nations.
By showing solidarity with the Nigerian troops and engaging in the ECOWAS Summit, President Tinubu aims to strengthen regional cooperation, promote democratic values, and foster peace and progress not only in Nigeria but throughout West Africa and beyond.
