The capital of Nigeria, Abuja, is abuzz with activity as esteemed dignitaries, foreign government representatives, diplomats, and heads of international organizations converge ahead of the anticipated inauguration ceremony.
Leading the United States delegation is the US Secretary for Housing, Secretary Marcia Fudge, who touched down at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Sunday afternoon.
The US Mission promptly confirmed her arrival via a tweet on their official Twitter handle, @UsinNigeria.
Joining the international gathering, the Canadian delegation, led by the Canadian Minister for Housing and Diversity and Inclusion, Minister Hussein Ahmed, has also landed in Nigeria.
The Canadian High Commission made the announcement on Twitter @CanadaInNigeria, further adding to the growing list of distinguished attendees.
A constellation of presidents has graced the occasion, including Algeria’s Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, Adamu Barrow of Gambia, Denis Nguesso of Congo Barazzaville, and Évariste Ndayishimiye of Burundi. Notable African leaders such as Ghana’s President Nana Akufo Addo, Tanzania’s President Samia Hassan, and the President of Chad, Mahamat Déby, are also present, among others.
Adding to the international delegation, a team from France, led by Minister Delegate for Development, Francophonie, and International Partnerships, Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, has been confirmed to have arrived in Abuja. Their presence exemplifies the enduring ties between France and Nigeria.
India’s Defence Minister, Mr. Rajnath Singh, has also landed in Abuja, accompanied by a high-level delegation comprising senior officials from the Ministry of Defence and Ministry of External Affairs.
The Indian High Commission emphasized that the minister’s visit reflects the deepening bilateral relations between India and Nigeria, symbolizing India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the African nation.
In a statement, the Indian High Commission remarked, “Mr. Singh is the senior most minister in the Government of India. Sending such a senior minister to Nigeria as a Special Envoy of the Prime Minister of India reflects India’s commitment to the deep-rooted bilateral relations with Nigeria.”
