Bola Tinubu has restated Nigeria’s commitment to the full implementation of South Sudan’s revitalised peace agreement, calling for the immediate and unconditional release of First Vice President Riek Machar and other detained opposition leaders.
Tinubu’s message was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan (C-5 Plus Summit), held in Addis Ababa on the sidelines of the 39th AU Assembly. The meeting was chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
He urged South Sudan’s authorities to release detained leaders without conditions and to convene an inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation forum. He also called on all parties to participate constructively in mediation efforts without preconditions.
Tinubu emphasised that Nigeria stands with African partners in supporting the South Sudanese people’s pursuit of lasting peace, stability, and development. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to backing the Transitional Government of National Unity in achieving sustainable progress.
Highlighting the need for unity and elite consensus during the transition, Tinubu encouraged African leaders to prioritise inclusive, peaceful, and transparent elections as a pathway to rebuilding trust. He warned that insecurity and political tensions continue to hinder key reforms, including security restructuring and constitutional development.
In his remarks, Ramaphosa acknowledged that implementation of the peace deal has been slow eight years after its adoption, describing the summit as a clear sign of leaders’ resolve to secure a lasting solution for South Sudan.
Separately, Nigeria pledged full infrastructural and operational support to the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea, promising to provide office facilities, vessels, helicopters, and personnel to strengthen efforts against transnational crime and boost regional maritime security.
