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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu yesterday hosted Chadian President, Mahamat Idriss Déby, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, where the two leaders pledged intensified security collaboration to eradicate terrorism and banditry in the Lake Chad Basin.
The meeting underscored Nigeria’s firm dedication to bolstering ties with Chad amid shared threats, with talks centering on coordinated responses through the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
Tinubu said the visit was perfectly timed, noting it would fortify bilateral relations and joint efforts against regional instability. “Our discussions centred on the security challenges facing our region. Chad is a critical partner in the MNJTF and together, we have resolved to combat terrorism, eliminate acts of terror and ensure the safety and sovereignty of our nations,” the President said.
He emphasised the duo’s mutual duty to safeguard borders and citizens, insisting that the ongoing cooperation among neighbours was vital for enduring peace. Tinubu also pointed to the deep historical bonds between Nigeria and Chad, which they are expanding to foster stability, economic progress and integration.
“We have come a long way. What we inherited from our forebears is the responsibility to ensure peace and stability for the development of our region,” he stated.
The leaders agreed that stronger security would unlock trade, economic ties and social unity, viewing borders and linguistic differences as bridges to opportunity rather than obstacles. Conversations also covered wider regional alliances, including with Niger, to crush terrorism and advance collective prosperity.
He reaffirmed the governments’ resolve to tackle insecurity and nurture development across the area. “It is a joy and honour to welcome my brother to Abuja and to reassure our people that we will continue to work together to combat terrorism and secure a better future for our region,” he said.
This marks Déby’s inaugural official visit to Nigeria since Tinubu graced his inauguration in N’Djamena on May 23, 2024. The 42-year-old leader assumed power after his father, former President Idriss Déby Itno died fighting rebels on April 20, 2021. Déby, who was heading the Transitional Military Council, became transitional president in October 2022 and triumphed in Chad’s May 2024 election.
The Abuja summit followed Tinubu’s reception of St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister, Terrance Drew, on March 26, positioning Déby as the second visiting head of state in a week.
