By Ayomide Otitoju
Ghanaian President John Mahama paid his first official visit to Nigeria’s Presidential Villa on March 27, 2025, since his inauguration in January, meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.
Mahama stated that his visit aimed to update Tinubu on ongoing diplomatic engagements with the military junta leaders of Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. These discussions are part of efforts to address regional security and stability concerns between the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“I came to thank him for the honor done me during my inauguration but also to brief him on the visits to the Sahelian countries—Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger—and to bring him up to date with some of the issues,” Mahama said. “As ECOWAS chairman, it is my duty to come and brief him on some of the concerns that were raised so we can continue dialogue with those countries.”
Acknowledging the complexities of the regional crisis, Mahama stressed the need for sustained diplomatic efforts. “It’s a complicated situation and not as easy as we think. We just need to continue to dialogue and see how we can move forward together,” he added.
President Tinubu welcomed Mahama’s visit, commending his efforts to mediate between AES countries and ECOWAS. “I am very happy with the steps he has taken to bridge the gap between the AES and ECOWAS,” Tinubu said. “Given the security challenges in the Sahel and the economic opportunities we must explore, it is crucial to ensure the safety and prosperity of our citizens.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to promoting regional peace and collaboration, emphasizing that continued dialogue remains the best approach to resolving tensions.
The visit marks a continuation of the strong diplomatic ties between both nations, as Tinubu had previously visited Mahama in Accra shortly after the Ghanaian leader’s election victory in December 2024.
