Matawalle to Discuss Defence, Regional Security at São Tomé President’s Inauguration
The Minister of State for Defence, Dr Bello Muhammad Matawalle, i expected to discuss defence cooperation and regional security with the São Toméan leadership during his visit to the country.
Matawalle arrived in São Tomé on Wednesday to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, at the inauguration of São Tomé and Príncipe President Carlos Manuel Vila Nova for a second five-year term.
Vila Nova is scheduled to be sworn in on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional) in São Tomé.
According to a statement issued by Queeneth Iheoma-Hart, Chief Information Officer, for the Director of Information and Public Relations, Matawalle’s visit underscores Nigeria’s strong bilateral relations with São Tomé and Príncipe.
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The Federal Government also described Nigeria’s participation as a reaffirmation of its commitment to democracy, good governance and regional stability in the Gulf of Guinea.
Vila Nova emerged victorious in the presidential election held on July 19, 2026.
During the visit, Matawalle is expected to deliver President Tinubu’s goodwill message to the São Toméan president and hold discussions with the country’s leadership on areas of mutual interest.
These include defence cooperation and regional security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea.
Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe maintain cordial diplomatic relations built around shared interests in democracy, economic cooperation and maritime security.
The Federal Government said Nigeria’s continued engagement with São Tomé reflects its commitment to strengthening regional partnerships and promoting peace and stability across the Gulf of Guinea.
By PRNigeria
