President Bola Tinubu a short while ago engaged in a telephone conversation with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss the evolving situation in Africa. The conversation focused on potential strategies to address the ongoing coup in Gabon, where military forces took control following controversial election results.

In a related development, Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Media and Publicity, highlighted the president’s commitment to upholding democratic principles and the rule of law across the African continent. During a press conference at the State House in Abuja, Ngelale emphasized that Tinubu’s priority was to prevent the erosion of constitutional governance in Africa.

Ngelale explained that President Tinubu expressed his concerns about the rise of autocratic regimes in Africa and the need for leaders to uphold democratic values. He detailed how Tinubu has been actively engaging with African Union (AU) leaders to develop a cohesive response to the challenges posed by autocracy in the region.

President Tinubu’s discussions with Canadian Prime Minister Trudeau covered not only the situation in Gabon but also the crisis in Niger Republic, which has experienced multiple coups. Both leaders underscored the importance of promoting and protecting constitutional democracy in Africa. They highlighted the significant influence of Africans living in the diaspora on global politics and economies, urging the international community to support democratic progress in Africa.

Tinubu, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), is steadfast in his efforts to restore constitutional order in Niger Republic and address democratic setbacks across the continent. His continuous engagement with heads of state within the African Union and beyond reflects his commitment to finding sustainable solutions to these challenges.