ABUJA, May 16 – President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria, during a meeting with Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, called for a united effort in West Africa to tackle terrorism, human trafficking, and other regional challenges. The leaders met at the State House on Thursday, discussing the necessity for collective action and alignment in addressing these pressing issues.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of making the welfare of the people the central focus of governance, asserting that the true essence of democracy is lost if the people are not prioritized. He highlighted that democratic values, constitutional order, and the rule of law are fundamental and must be upheld to sustain democracy in the region.
“Constitutional democracy is what Senegal has showcased to the world and Africa. It is a pleasure to host you here, reflecting the hopes and aspirations of our youth. Your commitment to freedom and democracy is truly commendable,” Tinubu remarked.
He also noted the strong historical ties between Nigeria and Senegal, describing them as brotherly nations with shared democratic interests. Tinubu praised President Faye as a symbol of patience, perseverance, and dedication to democratic values.
“We must collaborate to ensure our people remain the focus of our democratic efforts. Your belief in African sovereignty is a sentiment we all share. However, we cannot champion democracy while violating the rule of law or supporting unconstitutional government takeovers,” Tinubu added.
As Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Tinubu extended an invitation to President Faye to join in persuading other regional leaders to adhere to democratic principles and constitutional order.
