The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with São Tomé and Príncipe, with particular 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 in São Tomé and Príncipe.
Matawalle, speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, congratulated Vila Nova on his re-election and commended the people of São Tomé and Príncipe for what he described as a peaceful, credible and transparent electoral process.
He said the outcome of the election reflected the confidence of the people in Vila Nova’s leadership, while commending the government, National Electoral Commission and political parties for contributing to the strengthening of democratic institutions.
President Tinubu, in his message, expressed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cooperation between both countries.
“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,” Matawalle said.
Tinubu further said Nigeria valued the longstanding friendship between the two countries and looked forward to expanding cooperation in maritime security, the Joint Development Zone, trade and investment, as well as other areas of mutual interest.
The Minister said Nigeria remained committed to promoting peace, security and development in the Gulf of Guinea and 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.
He noted that Nigeria’s representation at the inauguration underscored the historic ties of friendship, fraternity, solidarity and cooperation between the two nations.
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 Gabon, Brice Oligui Nguema; Prime Minister of Mozambique, Maria Benvinda Levy; Angola’s Foreign Minister, Téte António, who represented the Angolan Head of State; and Prime Minister of Morocco, Aziz Akhannouch.
