Tinubu Urges Release of Machar, Reaffirms Nigeria’s Support for South Sudan Peace Process

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the swift 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 figures.

Tinubu made the call at the African Union High-Level Ad Hoc Committee meeting on South Sudan, known as the C-5 Plus Summit, 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. He was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The Nigerian leader urged South Sudanese authorities to convene an all-inclusive national dialogue and reconciliation forum, stressing that national unity and elite consensus are crucial for a successful transition He also called on stakeholders to prioritise inclusive, peaceful, and transparent elections to build trust in the country’s leadership.

Tinubu noted that insecurity and political tensions in South Sudan have slowed progress in key transitional areas, including security sector reforms and constitution drafting. He reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to support efforts toward lasting peace and sustainable development in the country.

Meanwhile, Nigeria has pledged to host and provide full infrastructural support for the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea. According to Shettima, Nigeria will supply office facilities, ships, helicopters, and temporary personnel to enhance maritime security and combat transnational organised crimes in the region.

The commitment was announced during the AU summit, where Nigeria also advocated stronger continental collaboration to address security threats, debt challenges, and mineral exploitation across Africa.

The presidency said the moves reflect Nigeria’s broader push for peace, stability, and institutional strengthening on the continent.