Nigeria has powerfully reaffirmed its leading position within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This demonstration of regional influence came as Vice President Kashim Shettima stood as the nation's representative at a pivotal democratic event in Conakry.
A Landmark Democratic Transition in Guinea
Vice President Shettima, acting on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, witnessed the historic swearing-in and inauguration of Mamady Doumbouya as the President of Guinea. This ceremony, held on 17 January 2026, marked the formal conclusion of four years of military rule in the country. It followed President Doumbouya's victory in the December 2025 general elections, a process hailed as a landmark return to constitutional order.
The event took place at the General Lansana Conté Stadium in Conakry, drawing a large crowd and a significant assembly of African leadership. The presence of Vice President Shettima was a clear diplomatic signal, underscoring Nigeria's unwavering commitment to regional unity and the consolidation of democratic governance across West Africa.
Regional Solidarity and Nigeria's Stabilising Role
The inauguration served as a gathering point for leaders from across the continent. Dignitaries in attendance included heads of state from Ghana, Senegal, The Gambia, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Rwanda, and South Africa. Also present were the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, and the Presidents of Rwanda, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, and Mauritania.
In his inaugural address, President Doumbouya pledged to uphold the constitution, promising a focus on democracy, transparency, and inclusive governance. He assured Guineans that peace and national cohesion would be paramount during his tenure. Under a new constitution approved by referendum in September 2025, President Doumbouya will serve a single seven-year term, an extension from the previous five-year mandate.
Nigeria's involvement aligns directly with President Tinubu's Renewed Hope agenda, which positions the nation as a stabilising force in West Africa. Officials stated that Shettima's visit was part of broader efforts to deepen bilateral ties and expand the economic corridor between Nigeria and Guinea, leveraging regional cooperation for mutual growth and prosperity.
Concurrent Diplomatic and Economic Milestones
In a related development highlighting Nigeria's active foreign policy, President Bola Tinubu returned to Nigeria on Saturday after leading the country's delegation to the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2026 (ADSW 2026) in the United Arab Emirates.
The summit yielded a significant achievement for Nigeria. On its sidelines, the country signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the United Arab Emirates. This pact is designed to dramatically boost economic cooperation, increase bilateral trade and investment, and enhance collaboration in strategic sectors like energy, infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and green industries.
Furthermore, President Tinubu announced an upcoming joint Nigeria-UAE INVESTOPIA to be hosted in Lagos in February. This investment-focused initiative aims to position Nigeria as a premier global destination for capital, innovation, and strategic partnerships, further diversifying the economy and attracting long-term foreign direct investment.
