After attending the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the African Union (AU) in Kenya over the weekend, President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja, the capital of Nigeria. His flight landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 4:20 p.m. on Monday, where he was warmly received by various government officials.
Among those present to welcome President Tinubu were Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Femi Gbajabiamila, the Chief of Staff to the President, Hope Uzodinnma, the Governor of Imo State, and Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, the former Governor of Kano State.
President Tinubu attended the meeting in his capacity as the Chairman of the Authority of the Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The purpose of his journey to Kenya was to participate in important discussions and deliberations with other African leaders.
One of the key topics discussed during the meeting in Nairobi was the reaffirmation of Africa's unity and strength, along with the rejection of a new scramble for the continent's resources. President Tinubu emphasized the importance of preserving Africa's sovereignty and working together to tackle common challenges.
Furthermore, President Tinubu expressed his intentions to bolster the ECOWAS Standby Force as part of efforts to deter coup attempts and combat terrorism across the continent. Strengthening the region's security capabilities remains a priority for the ECOWAS Chairman, as he believes a robust Standby Force will contribute to the overall stability and peace of the West African region.
President Tinubu's return to Abuja marks the continuation of his responsibilities as a prominent leader in both Nigeria and the ECOWAS community. The insights and outcomes from the AU meeting will likely inform future strategies and actions undertaken by the ECOWAS to address regional issues and promote progress in West Africa.