President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to travel from Abuja to Dakar, Senegal, today to attend the inauguration of Senegal’s President-elect, Bassirou Faye. This announcement was made by the Presidency through a statement issued by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale. Tinubu, who serves as the Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, will join other regional leaders at the Diamniadio Exhibition Centre for the inauguration ceremony.
This visit marks Tinubu’s first trip to Senegal since assuming office, following an invitation from the Senegalese government. He will be accompanied by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and other senior government officials. After attending the inauguration, Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria.
Senegal is the fifth African country that Tinubu has visited since taking office ten months ago, marking his 17th foreign destination. In congratulating President-elect Faye on his victory, Tinubu emphasized the significance of the successful elections in Senegal and Liberia in promoting democracy in the West African sub-region.
Faye emerged victorious in Senegal’s presidential election held on March 24, 2024, with an unprecedented victory. The country’s electoral commission reported a voter turnout of over 61 per cent, with Faye securing about 53.7 per cent of the votes. Former Prime Minister and ruling coalition candidate, Amadou Ba, conceded defeat based on preliminary results, acknowledging Faye’s lead.
In response, President-elect Faye expressed appreciation for the peaceful conduct of the elections and the sportsmanship displayed by his fellow candidates. He pledged to lead with humility, combat corruption, and safeguard Senegal’s sovereignty against external influences.