Nigeria and São Tomé Strengthen Maritime Security Ties

The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with São Tomé and Príncipe, particularly in areas such as maritime security, the Nigeria-São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Zone (JDZ), trade, and investment. This commitment was articulated by Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, the Minister of State for Defence, who represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova for a second five-year term.

In a statement from Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer for the Director, Information and Public Relations at the Ministry of Defence, Matawalle praised the peaceful and credible elections in São Tomé and Príncipe. He emphasized Nigeria's longstanding friendship with São Tomé and Príncipe and expressed readiness to deepen cooperation in various sectors.

The inauguration took place at the country's Parliament Building and was attended by several African and European leaders, highlighting the significance of the event in promoting regional cooperation.