By Peter Omopo
The Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has hosted the President of the Democratic Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, Carlos Vila Nova, and his wife, Maria de Fátima Vila Nova, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
The president and First Lady were received by the minister at his residence in Asokoro, where discussions focused on issues of mutual interest, including Nigeria’s security situation, growth and development, as well as the strengthening of bilateral relations between both countries.
The visit followed President Vila Nova’s attendance, on Friday, at the wedding fatiha of ten sons and daughters of the minister, which held at the National Mosque in Abuja. The ceremony was also attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other dignitaries.
Speaking on the visit, Matawalle described it as an honour to host the São Toméan leader and his wife, noting that their discussions were cordial and productive.
He said both parties agreed to continue working together to deepen cooperation and enhance diplomatic ties between Nigeria and São Tomé and Príncipe.
Matawalle added that the visit was particularly significant as it coincided with a period of family celebration, expressing gratitude to the president and First Lady for the show of goodwill.
The visit featured an exchange of gifts between the minister and his guests as a symbol of appreciation and the enduring friendship between the two countries.
