President Bola Tinubu returned to Abuja on Friday evening after concluding a three-day official visit to Equatorial Guinea.
The Gulfstream jet carrying the President touched down at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at around 6:30 pm. This trip marks Tinubu’s 22nd international visit since assuming office 15 months ago.
On hand to welcome him were top government officials, including his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, among others.
During his visit to Equatorial Guinea, Tinubu and President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo signed a significant agreement on the Gulf of Guinea Pipeline Project. This agreement strengthens the partnership between the two countries and paves the way for increased gas exploration, employment opportunities, and economic growth.
The deal covers a wide range of areas including legislative and regulatory measures, ownership and operation of the pipeline, and the transit of natural gas.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Tinubu emphasized the importance of the agreement, stating that it would unlock new opportunities for both countries.
He highlighted that the discussions with President Mbasogo also included crucial topics such as security challenges, food security, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In a private meeting preceding the agreement, the two leaders discussed conflict resolution mechanisms on the continent and ways to promote peace and stability across Africa.
“We talked about the promotion of peace and stability in our countries and growth and prosperity on our continent,” Tinubu said.
During a dinner in his honor, Tinubu urged African leaders to take proactive steps to curb the brain drain affecting the continent. He stressed the need for reforms in healthcare, judicial systems, and the elimination of tribalism, which he said undermines unity and progress in Africa.
“Why are we complaining about healthcare problems if our doctors cannot have a home in our continent?”
Tinubu questioned. “We have to develop our resources for our progress. Find solutions among ourselves, focus incisively on research and development, and reward those research and development programs.”