Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Luanda, Angola, where he will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 21st Extraordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).
The summit is expected to bring together African leaders and key stakeholders to discuss strategies for addressing conflicts, strengthening peace efforts and improving security cooperation across the continent.
The Vice President’s departure was confirmed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, in a statement.
AU summit to focus on continental peace
Nkwocha said the high-level meeting would focus on practical approaches to conflict prevention, dispute resolution and the promotion of sustainable peace in Africa.
He explained that Shettima would join other African leaders in examining ways to strengthen continental mechanisms for managing security challenges.
The summit comes at a time when several African countries continue to face challenges including terrorism, political instability, armed conflicts and humanitarian crises.
Nigeria to highlight peacebuilding role
According to the presidential aide, Nigeria remains committed to supporting peacebuilding and conflict resolution initiatives within Africa and beyond.
He said the country is expected to contribute to discussions aimed at improving cooperation among African nations and strengthening institutions responsible for maintaining peace.
Shettima, accompanied by senior defence and security officials, is expected to present Nigeria’s position on the issues under discussion and deliver President Tinubu’s message to the gathering.
The Vice President is also expected to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability and collective efforts toward achieving lasting peace on the continent.
Return after summit engagements
The Presidency said Shettima will return to Nigeria after completing his official engagements in Angola.
The AU summit provides an opportunity for African leaders to assess ongoing security challenges and explore collaborative solutions aimed at building a more peaceful and stable continent.
Background Information
The African Union (AU) regularly convenes extraordinary summits to address major continental issues, including conflicts, political instability, terrorism and humanitarian challenges.
Nigeria has historically played an important role in African diplomacy, contributing to peacekeeping operations, regional mediation efforts and security initiatives through organisations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the AU.
Nigeria’s foreign policy has traditionally emphasised regional stability, peaceful dispute resolution and cooperation among African nations.
