Nigeria pushes for Machar’s release, backs South Sudan peace deal at AU Summit

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to the full implementation of the revitalised peace agreement in South Sudan, with President Bola Tinubu calling for the immediate and unconditional release of detained First Vice President Riek Machar.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the African Union (AU) High-Level Ad Hoc Committee for South Sudan, also known as the C-5 Plus Summit, Tinubu urged South Sudanese authorities to prioritise inclusive dialogue and peaceful elections as part of efforts to restore stability.

The meeting, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, was held on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Tinubu stressed that Nigeria stands ready to support South Sudan’s Transitional Government of National Unity in achieving lasting peace, warning that without national unity and elite consensus, progress on the transition programme would remain limited.

He also called for inclusive, transparent, and credible elections, describing them as essential to building public trust and confidence in the country’s leadership.

The Nigerian leader noted that insecurity and political tensions in South Sudan continue to slow key transitional processes, including security sector reforms and constitution drafting. He added that Nigeria’s recent launch of a Regional Partnership for Democracy forms part of broader efforts to support democratic governance and conflict resolution across Africa.

In his remarks, President Ramaphosa commended African leaders for sustaining engagement in the South Sudan peace process but expressed concern over the slow pace of implementation of the revitalised agreement eight years after its signing.

He urged all parties to recommit to dialogue and work collectively toward resolving outstanding issues.