Tinubu Discusses Terrorism, Human Trafficking With Senegalese Counterpart

President Bola Tinubu received his Senegalese counterpart, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on Thursday and discussed various issues, including terrorism, banditry, human trafficking and poverty.

Speaking during the meeting at the State House, the Nigerian president noted that West Africa should work together with focus and commitment in order to fix these issues. Tinubu also advised other leaders on the continent to ensure that the essence of democracy was maintained.

He further urged to protect the democratic governance, democratic values and constitutional order, adding that the judiciary and the rule of law must be respected.

"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," he said, as per the official statement shared on X (formerly known as Twitter).

He added, "A critical time it is in the history of constitutional democracy, particularly in West Africa. What you have embarked upon, a struggle couched in freedom, is remarkable."

Tinubu also spoke about Nigeria and Senegal's relationship, stressing that both countries have shared brotherly relations for decades, apart from a shared interest in democracy, adding that to make it sustainable, both nations need to work hard.

He praised the Senegal president for being an example of patience, perseverance, and commitment to democratic values. He went on to urge his counterpart to partner up in order to focus on democratic commitment.

"Your belief in the sovereignty of Africa is shared by all of us. But how can we work for our people and make them the focus of our democracy if we are violating the rule of law and promoting an unconstitutional takeover of government?" Tinubu said.

As a Chairman of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States), the Nigerian president invited Faye to meet other brothers on the continent, hinting at other African presidents.

President Faye, on the other hand, also spoke during the event and acknowledged the brotherhood between the two countries alongside shared values, ideals and challenges. He recalled that both nations and private sectors have had a good relationship since the 1960s.

"Your wisdom and your democratic values should be an asset to that vision, and my youth and determination can also be an asset. If we come together, with all these assets and advantages, I am convinced we can open a window of opportunity to discuss," Faye said.