Nigeria has reaffirmed its 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 on Friday while representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova for a second five-year term.
Matawalle congratulated Vila Nova on his re-election and conveyed President Tinubu’s commitment to deepening cooperation between both countries.
The Nigeria-São Tomé and Príncipe JDZ is a jointly administered maritime area established by both countries to facilitate the exploration and development of petroleum and other natural resources. It is also strategically important to maritime security and economic cooperation in the Gulf of Guinea.
Speaking on behalf of President Tinubu, Matawalle commended the people of São Tomé and Príncipe for conducting a peaceful, credible and transparent election, saying Vila Nova’s victory reflected the confidence of the people in his leadership.
“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, he added, said Nigeria valued the longstanding friendship between both countries and looked forward to deeper cooperation in maritime security, the JDZ, trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest.
Matawalle also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace, security and development in the Gulf of Guinea, expressing readiness to strengthen relations with São Tomé and Príncipe for the mutual benefit of both countries.
The inauguration, held at the country’s Parliament Building, was attended by several African and European leaders and other dignitaries.
