The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, has arrived in São Tomé and Príncipe to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, at the inauguration of São Tomé and Príncipe’s President, Carlos Manuel Vila Nova.

President Vila Nova is scheduled to be sworn in for a second five-year term on Thursday, September 3, 2026, at the National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional) in São Tomé.

Matawalle’s representation, according to the Federal Government, underscores Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic relations with São Tomé and Príncipe and reinforces Abuja’s commitment to democracy, good governance, peace and regional stability in the Gulf of Guinea.

Vila Nova emerged victorious in the presidential election held on July 19, 2026, paving the way for his second term in office.

Speaking on Nigeria’s participation in the inauguration, Matawalle said the country’s presence demonstrates its continued commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting stability across the Gulf of Guinea.

He said Nigeria remained committed to deepening cooperation with São Tomé and Príncipe, particularly in areas of defence, maritime security and regional stability.

The Minister is expected to deliver President Tinubu’s goodwill message to the São Toméan leadership and engage government officials on areas of mutual interest between both countries.

The discussions are also expected to provide an opportunity for both sides to explore avenues for strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and addressing emerging security challenges in the Gulf of Guinea.

Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe have maintained cordial diplomatic relations, with cooperation spanning democracy, economic development, maritime security and other areas of mutual interest.

Matawalle’s participation in the presidential inauguration therefore further highlights Nigeria’s role in advancing peace, democratic governance and collective security within the Gulf of Guinea region.

The visit is also expected to reinforce Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement with neighbouring and strategically important countries as the Federal Government continues efforts to promote regional stability and cooperation.