By Adedapo Adesanya
President Bola Tinubu has affirmed Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing maritime security and safety in the Gulf of Guinea, to strengthen bilateral relationships, trade and investments among Gulf of Guinea (GoG) nations.
The President made this disclosure when he received the Special Envoy of the President of Equatorial Guinea, Mr Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo.
He reaffirmed the longstanding bilateral ties between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, describing the relations as strong and brotherly.
Mr Tinubu recalled his previous meeting with President Mbasogo, during which they discussed strategies for enhancing economic relations, particularly in the context of ocean and marine economy, and collaborating to address the challenges posed by climate change.
He expressed confidence that the formal meetings between the two nations would lead to further strengthening of their relationship.
“Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea are brotherly nations, and we enjoy very longstanding mutual relations. I am sure when next we meet formally; the relationship between our countries will grow from strength to strength,” the President said.
Earlier, the Special Presidential Envoy and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Equatorial Guinea, Mr Simeon Oyono Esono Angue, conveyed a message from President Mbasogo requesting a state visit by President Tinubu, emphasizing the need to revitalize the Nigeria-Equatorial Guinea Joint Commission.
Mr Angue also emphasised the importance of fostering greater cooperation in various sectors, including oil and gas, and trade.