Nigeria Pledges Stronger Ties with DR Congo, Backs African Peace Efforts

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening diplomatic relations with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) while pledging continued support for African-led initiatives aimed at promoting peace, security and sustainable development across the continent.

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, gave the assurance when he received the Special Envoy of President Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo of the DRC at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.

The envoy, accompanied by the DRC Ambassador to Nigeria, Mrs. Pascaline Gerengbo Yakivu, delivered a special message from President Tshisekedi to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and extended an invitation for Nigeria to participate in the United Nations Security Council High-Level Open Debate on Peace, Security, Stability and Development scheduled for July 22 in New York.

The Congolese envoy described the debate as an important platform for African countries to advance common positions on issues affecting the continent, stressing that Nigeria’s participation would be significant because of its leadership role in regional and continental affairs.

In his response, Ambassador Enikanolaiye conveyed President Tinubu’s goodwill to President Tshisekedi and congratulated the DRC on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council.

He expressed confidence that the country would use its position on the Council to advance Africa’s interests and champion issues critical to the continent’s peace, security and development.

The minister also welcomed the initiative to convene the high-level debate, noting that meaningful development can only thrive in an environment of peace and stability. He reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering support for African-owned solutions to conflicts and security challenges across the continent.

On the Ebola outbreak in parts of the DRC, Enikanolaiye conveyed Nigeria’s sympathy to the Congolese government and people, while commending the measures already taken to contain the disease.

He disclosed that Nigeria had activated preventive measures, including the establishment of a Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease, to strengthen the country’s preparedness and response capacity against any possible outbreak.

The minister further assured the Congolese delegation that Nigeria would be represented at the United Nations Security Council debate, adding that the level of participation would be determined after consultations. He also requested the debate’s concept note and other relevant documents to facilitate Nigeria’s effective engagement.

Both sides also discussed outstanding bilateral issues, including consular matters and government property concerns involving Nigeria in the DRC, and agreed to strengthen diplomatic consultations towards an amicable resolution.

The meeting ended with both countries reaffirming their commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation and working together to promote peace, security and sustainable development across Africa.