Tinubu delegates Shettima to attend São Tomé’s 50th independence anniversary

By Kunle Sanni –

Vice President Kashim Shettima will on Saturday depart Abuja for São Tomé, the capital of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, where he will represent President Bola Tinubu at the country’s 50th National Independence Day celebration.

The Vice President is expected to join leaders from across Africa and other parts of the world at the grand finale of activities marking the island nation’s Golden Jubilee.

The celebration will feature official speeches, military parades, cultural performances, and traditional displays highlighting São Tomé and Príncipe’s national identity and unity.

Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe maintain strong diplomatic and economic ties, particularly through their collaboration in the Gulf of Guinea. Central to this partnership is the Nigeria–São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Authority (NSTPJDA), which manages the Joint Development Zone (JDZ), a maritime area abundant in hydrocarbon resources.

Beyond the energy sector, Nigeria has supported São Tomé and Príncipe in several areas, including technical assistance, capacity building, and humanitarian relief, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vice President Shettima’s visit underscores Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

He is expected to return to Nigeria upon the conclusion of his official engagements.