Tinubu receives international support for restoration of democratic order in Niger
United States Vice President Kamala Harris and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres separately reached out to President Bola Tinubu to express their support for Nigeria’s efforts in restoring constitutional order in the Republic of Niger.
President Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairman of ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, was commended for spearheading peace initiatives in the region.
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The turbulence in Niger began on July 26, 2023, when soldiers from the Presidential Guard attempted to depose President Mohamed Bazoum. President Tinubu swiftly condemned the threat to democracy and sent a high-level delegation to engage all parties involved, with the aim of achieving a peaceful resolution and reinstating constitutional order.
During her telephone conversation with President Tinubu, Vice President Harris praised Nigeria’s reform initiatives and encouraged the country to continue progressing in that direction.
She reiterated the United States’ commitment to supporting democracy in Africa, specifically within the West African sub-region, and expressed readiness to assist Nigeria in its fight against terrorism. Vice President Harris also emphasized the importance of energy transitions for Africa, including Nigeria.
In a statement release by his media aide, Dele Alake, President Tinubu thanked Vice President Harris for the call and her encouraging words regarding Nigeria’s economic efforts. However, he voiced concern over the developments in Niger, noting that they had dampened spirits.
He assured Harris that ECOWAS, under his leadership, would spare no effort in restoring democracy in Niger and hoped for the support of the United States in this endeavor.
Furthermore, President Tinubu emphasized the need for increased private sector investment in Nigeria and urged the United States to lead the way in attracting such investments. He highlighted the country’s vast gas resources and expressed the desire to fund gas pipelines to Europe, emphasizing the importance of foreign direct investment in achieving this goal.
On the topic of climate change, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to renewable energy sources, while appealing for understanding from developed nations regarding the challenges faced by developing countries, particularly within Africa.
The discussions between the two leaders also touched on strengthening bilateral relations, addressing global and regional issues, defending democracy in West Africa and the Sahel, and promoting digital inclusion.
In his conversation with President Tinubu, Secretary-General Guterres conveyed the United Nations’ commitment to supporting Nigeria in resolving the impasse in Niger. President Tinubu expressed optimism that the situation in Niger could still be reversed for the better and emphasized the importance of UN support in restoring democracy and building institutions in the country. Secretary-General Guterres had previously pledged the UN’s dedication to President Tinubu’s peace efforts in Niger.
This exchange of support from Vice President Harris, Secretary-General Guterres, and other international leaders serves as a testament to the significance of restoring democratic order in Niger.
