July 22, 2024
President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja from Accra, Ghana, after attending the 6th mid-year coordination meeting of the African Union.
Tinubu, who left the nation’s capital on Saturday morning for the meeting, arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at about 10:00 pm on Sunday.
The Nigerian leader was received by his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, among other senior government officials.
While in Ghana, the President, who attended in his capacity as Chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States, provided updates on developments at the regional organization.
In his speech at the meeting, Tinubu highlighted some of the achievements and challenges of ECOWAS and showcased the community’s progress in counter-terrorism, electoral support, economic integration, humanitarian efforts, education, health, energy, mines, and agriculture.
Tinubu noted the activation of a standby force to counter-terrorism, support for member states in enhancing electoral and governance processes, and implementation of activities to consolidate the free trade area, customs union, and common market.
The President also highlighted ECOWAS’ humanitarian efforts, including a $9 million allocation to assist persons of concern, and support for frontline member states in the fight against terrorism.
However, Tinubu acknowledged the bloc’s challenges, including multiple threats, geopolitical rivalries, terrorism, food insecurity, climate change, and misinformation.
The Nigerian leader emphasized ECOWAS’ commitment to dialogue with member states, maintaining unity, and convening a special extra-ordinary summit on the future of the community.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Tinubu held a bilateral meeting with President Ismail Guelleh of Djibouti, agreeing to continue working together to advance bilateral interests.
