Former South African president and Head of the Commonwealth Observer Mission to Nigeria, Dr. Thabo Mbeki, has urged president-elect Bola Tinubu to keep the African continent in mind as he prepares to assume office. Mbeki made this appeal during a visit to Tinubu’s residence in Abuja on Thursday, following the completion of the Commonwealth Observer Mission. This information was conveyed in a statement by Tinubu’s Media Aide, Tunde Rahman, on Friday.
During the visit, Mbeki emphasized that the recent election was fair and credible. He encouraged Tinubu to consider the entire African continent as a guiding principle when he takes on his presidential responsibilities. Mbeki remarked, “Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa with a big economy. Whatever happens here sets the pace for the rest of Africa. We need a strong Nigerian presidency that will also focus on the African region.” He also cautioned Tinubu that his opponents would be looking for any opportunity to criticize him, stating, “Your opponent will be looking for the smallest thing to throw stones. That is the way of democracy.”
In response, the president-elect assured Mbeki of his commitment to advancing African integration and economic development. He expressed his intention to collaborate with Mbeki and other continental leaders to promote Africa’s progress. “Please Mr. President, don’t be far from us,” Tinubu urged Mbeki.
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