Kayode Sesan
President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday paid glowing tributes to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, saying he has a strong commitment to Nigeria and Africa.
He said that was why he decided to enlist the former President’s assistance to mediate in the political crisis in Guinea Bissau.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, quoted the President as speaking during an audience he granted to the President of Guinea Bissau, Mr. Jose Mario Bavz, at the sidelines of the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation in Johannesburg, South Africa.
“I sent President Olusegun Obasanjo because he is the only person living or dead that has ruled Nigeria for 11 years. I served under him as a military Head of State. He has a strong commitment to Nigeria and Africa. That was why I looked for him and asked him to collaborate with President Macky Sall of Senegal to stabilise the situation of Guinea Bissau,” the President was quoted as saying.
While appreciating Bavz’s appreciation for Nigeria’s support during the crisis in his country, Buhari told his guest that the “least Nigeria could do is what we did to stabilise your country. You can count on our support at all times.”
Bavz had said he came to thank the President for everything Nigeria has been doing for his country, adding that he has been looking forward to such an opportunity.
“I am not in a position to assist you but I pray for you every day. I want to take you as my big brother and share from your experience,” he said.
While thanking the Nigerian leader for sending former President Obasanjo as a Special Envoy to restore peace to his country recently, the Guinea Bissau leader also noted that “Nigeria is part of the solution and stability” of his country.
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