Libreville, Gabon – June 27, 2025
Gabonese President Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema has formally expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Nigerian government for their pivotal support during Gabon’s transition back to democratic rule.
Nguema, who rose to power following the August 2023 military-led transitional government and secured over 94.8 % of the vote in April 2025 presidential elections , publicly acknowledged Nigeria’s timely and decisive diplomatic backing as he navigated the delicate return to constitutional order.
Speaking during an official visit at the Presidential Palace in Libreville, Nguema highlighted Nigeria’s support, much of which was facilitated by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented President Tinubu at Nguema’s inauguration in May . He thanked Nigeria for its “solidarity and encouragement” and commended President Tinubu’s leadership in strengthening regional unity and stability in Central Africa.
President Nguema affirmed that Nigeria’s engagement was instrumental in bolstering confidence in Gabon’s democratic outcome. He described the mutual support as a strong foundation for future bilateral cooperation.
Nigeria has consistently championed peaceful democratic transitions in Africa, with President Tinubu’s administration reaffirming its role at international forums, including the World Customs Organization (WCO) and African Union summits.
With constitutional governance now restored in Gabon, both nations appear poised to deepen diplomatic ties, trade exchanges, and security partnerships, building on the goodwill cemented during the transitional period.