Nigeria and São Tomé to Boost Maritime Security Ties

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria congratulated Carlos Manuel Vila Nova on his re-election as President of São Tomé and Príncipe, which was announced during Vila Nova's inauguration on Thursday. Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, emphasized the need for stronger bilateral cooperation in maritime security, the Nigeria-São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Zone, trade, and investment.

Vila Nova won 55.88 percent of the votes in the presidential election held on July 19. In his congratulatory letter, Tinubu praised the peaceful and transparent nature of the election, commending the São Tomé government and citizens for their role in strengthening democratic institutions.

Matawalle arrived in São Tomé City on Wednesday evening to convey Tinubu's goodwill and reaffirm Nigeria's commitment to enhancing ties with São Tomé and Príncipe. The inauguration ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including leaders from the Republic of Congo, Gabon, Mozambique, Angola, Morocco, and Portugal.