The Nigerian government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has initiated emergency measures to secure the safe return of former President Goodluck Jonathan, who remains trapped in Guinea-Bissau following Wednesday's military coup that overthrew President Umaro Sissoco Embalo.
African Leaders Stranded After Military Takeover
Former President Jonathan was among 36 high-profile observers on a joint mission representing the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), and the West African Elders Forum (WAEF) when soldiers seized control of the West African nation on November 26, 2025.
The delegation had traveled to Guinea-Bissau to monitor the presidential election held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, when the military intervention abruptly suspended the electoral process and closed all land, air, and sea borders.
Nigerian Government's Rescue Efforts
According to senior government sources who spoke anonymously, the Tinubu administration is actively working through diplomatic and security channels to facilitate Jonathan's safe return. A multinational task force including Nigerian personnel is already present in Guinea-Bissau to support the security of the former president and other Nigerian officials currently in the country.
"Nigeria is taking the necessary steps to ensure their security and facilitate their return," the source confirmed, adding that Jonathan is currently safe despite the volatile situation.
International Condemnation and Demands
The Nigerian government has joined other African nations in strongly condemning the military takeover and demanding the immediate restoration of constitutional order. The election observers' delegation had previously called on both AU and ECOWAS to take urgent steps to reverse the coup and secure the release of all detained officials.
Among those arrested during the military action were President Umaro Embalo, who has led Guinea-Bissau since February 27, 2020, along with the armed forces' chief of staff General Biaguê Na Ntan and deputy chief of staff General Mamadou Toure.
The stranded observers were originally scheduled to depart Guinea-Bissau on November 29, though their current travel plans remain uncertain due to the ongoing political crisis and border closures.
