At the 63rd Ordinary Session of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States, ECOWAS, President Bola Tinubu has arrived in Guinea-Bissau.

This is Tinubu’s second international trip, according to the News Agency of Nigeria, following his attendance at the meeting on “A New Global Finance Accord” in Paris, France, which was hosted by President Emmanuel Macron.

Mr. Tinubu took advantage of the conference to pay a visit to the Nigerian personnel serving with the ECOWAS Stabilization Force in Guinea-Bissau.

The president said in his speech that Nigeria would continue to promote democracy in West Africa and around the world and praised the soldiers and their commander, Gen. Al-hassan Grema, for their commitment to serving both Nigeria and their host nation.

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

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

In a remarkable display of leadership, President Tinubu becomes the first Commander-in-Chief in Nigeria’s history to visit troops stationed abroad, earning immense gratitude from the soldiers. The President’s visit to Guinea-Bissau aims to strengthen bilateral relations and engage in crucial discussions during the forthcoming 63rd Ordinary Session Summit.

Leading a delegation of eminent officials, President Tinubu will participate in various high-level meetings and sideline engagements during the Summit. The esteemed entourage includes National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Acting Governor of the Central Bank Folashodun Shonubi, as well as former governors Abubakar Bagudu (Kebbi), Abdullahi Ganduje (Kano), and Abubakar Badaru (Jigawa).

This historic visit to Guinea-Bissau marks President Tinubu’s first international engagement within the African continent since assuming office. The 63rd Ordinary Session Summit, commencing on Sunday, will assemble 16 regional leaders who are expected to address critical sub-regional matters encompassing security, trade, and democratic governance, with a particular focus on Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea.

As the President’s visit garners accolades for its unprecedented nature, the forthcoming Summit holds significant promise for fostering regional cooperation and addressing pressing challenges across West Africa.

NAN