The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with São Tomé and Príncipe, with emphasis on 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 inauguration of President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova for a second five-year term.
Matawalle, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, commended the people of São Tomé and Príncipe for conducting what he described as a peaceful, credible and transparent election.
He said Vila Nova’s victory reflected the confidence reposed in his leadership by the people, while commending the government, National Electoral Commission and political parties for strengthening democratic institutions in the country.
“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,” he said.
President Tinubu, in a message conveyed by the minister, said Nigeria valued the longstanding friendship between the two countries and looked forward to deepening cooperation in key areas.
“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,” Tinubu said.
He said Nigeria remained committed to promoting peace, security and development in the Gulf of Guinea, stressing the need to re-establish and strengthen closer ties with São Tomé and Príncipe for the mutual benefit of both countries.
He added that President Tinubu’s representation at the inauguration underscored the historic bonds of friendship, fraternity, solidarity and cooperation between Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe.
The inauguration, held at the Parliament Building, was attended by several African and European leaders and other dignitaries.
Among those present were President Denis Sassou Nguesso of the Republic of Congo; President Brice Oligui Nguema of Gabon; Mozambique’s Prime Minister, Maria Benvinda Levy; Angola’s Foreign Minister, Téte António, who represented the Angolan President; and Morocco’s Prime Minister, Aziz Akhannouch, among others.
