President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has arrived in Bissau, the capital of the Republic 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 summit, which commences today, marks President Tinubu’s first international engagement within Africa since assuming office on May 29, 2023.
In a statement issued by Dele Alake, the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications, and Strategy, it was stated that the regional leaders, consisting of 16 heads of state, will address critical sub-regional issues during the summit.
These discussions will include the report of the 50th Ordinary Session of the Mediation and Security Council (MSC), which will focus on the security challenges faced by member countries.
Furthermore, the leaders will deliberate on the report of the 90th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers, which covers the financial situation of the organization and the progress made in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The summit will also assess the current status of political transitions in the Republics of Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea. Additionally, the leaders will consider memoranda regarding the ECOWAS Single Currency Programme and the obstacles hindering the free movement of goods along the Abidjan-Lagos corridor.
President Tinubu’s arrival at the Bissau International Airport was met with a warm reception, and he subsequently visited Nigerian troops serving under the ECOWAS Stabilisation Force in Guinea-Bissau.
During his visit, the President expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the soldiers and their Commander, General Al-hassan Grema, for their dedication and service to Nigeria and their host country. He emphasized Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to supporting democracy not only in West Africa but also around the world.
The discussions and decisions made during the summit are expected to contribute to enhanced security, economic integration, and political stability within the ECOWAS community.
Prior to his visit to Guinea-Bissau, President Tinubu participated in the summit on “A New Global Financing Pact” held in Paris, France, on June 22 and 23, 2023, hosted by President Emmanuel Macron.
The Paris Summit brought together numerous heads of state, representatives from NGOs and international organizations, as well as partners from the private and philanthropic sectors, to discuss and advance global financing strategies.
President Tinubu’s active involvement in international engagements demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation, economic development, and fostering positive relationships with other nations.