President Bola Tinubu hosted President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal at the State House on Thursday, with discussions centred on fostering regional cooperation and upholding democratic principles in West Africa. A Presidency statement signed by Special Adviser on Media & Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale quoted President Tinubu as emphasizing the need for an aligned purpose and structure among West African nations to tackle the multifaceted challenges confronting the region effectively. President Tinubu stated, “West Africa must work together to defeat the hydra-headed problems of terrorism, banditry, human trafficking and poverty.”
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“The essence of democracy is lost when the people are not the focal point,” he added
Tinubu highlighted the importance of upholding democratic governance, democratic values, and constitutional order, describing them as sacrosanct and deserving of protection.
He said, “Constitutional democracy is what Senegal proved to the rest of the world and Africa. It is a joy to have you here; to meet the hope and aspiration of our youths. You fit in perfectly well.
The President also emphasized the need to respect critical institutions and precepts, such as the judiciary and the rule of law, for the sustenance of democracy. Reflecting on the longstanding relations between Nigeria and Senegal, Tinubu described the two nations as “brothers” with shared interests in democracy.
“We are brothers. We have shared interest in democracy. To make democracy sustainable in the interest of our people, we definitely must work hard,” he said.
As the Chairman of ECOWAS, President Tinubu invited President Faye to collaborate and engage with other regional leaders to promote democratic governance and address common challenges.
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In his remarks, President Faye acknowledged the shared values, ideals, and challenges between Nigeria and Senegal, highlighting their longstanding good relations since the 1960s. He called for the reactivation of the Nigeria-Senegal Joint Commission to bolster bilateral ties across various areas, including diplomacy and trade.
Regarding ECOWAS, President Faye expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s wisdom and experience to strengthen relations among member states and advance the community’s integration agenda.
He said: “ECOWAS is the beacon of successful regional integration in Africa and globally. It is something we owe to the founding fathers of the community, and I have no doubt that you want to continue this legacy of integration,” he said.
