Tinubu visits Nigerian troops in Guinea-Bissau, says ‘we’re committed to global peace’

President Bola Tinubu says he remains committed to ensuring that peace thrives in Nigeria and the world.

Tinubu spoke during a visit to the Nigerian troops under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stabilisation force in Guinea-Bissau, according to a statement released on Saturday by Dele Alake, the president’s special adviser on communications and strategy.

According to the statement, Tinubu thanked the soldiers for their dedication and service to Nigeria and their host country.

He added that Nigeria would continue to support democracy in the West Africa sub-region and around the world.

“Nigeria is a giant that has made its mark in Sierra Leone and Liberia and other places. We count on your support for the defence of constitutional order. I heard your allowances have been paid up to date. Nothing else should make you angry. We will continue to build a virile force,” Tinubu was quoted as saying.

“We are proud of you. Proud of your loyalty. Nigeria depends on you. There will be peace and progress in our country.

“I am here to show solidarity with you. I want to assure you we are committed to supporting peace and democracy not only in West Africa but around the world.”

Al-Hassan Grema, commander of the troops, thanked Tinubu for his commitment and noted that he was the first president in Nigeria’s history to visit the soldiers outside the shore of the country. 

TheCable reported that Tinubu was set to travel to Bissau, the capital of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, for the 63rd ordinary session of the authority of heads of state and government of the ECOWAS.

The summit which will open on Sunday will be Tinubu’s first international engagement within the African continent since he assumed office on May 29.

The 16 regional leaders are expected to address memoranda on pressing sub-regional issues including a report of the 50th ordinary session of the mediation and security council (MSC) covering security challenges faced by the member countries.

Other issues to be addressed include a report of the 90th ordinary session of the ECOWAS council of ministers on the financial situation of the body and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The report on the status of transition in the Republics of Mali, Burkina Faso and Guinea, memoranda on the ECOWAS single currency programme and the report on obstacles to the free movement of goods on the Abidjan-Lagos corridor will also be considered.