By ifeoma Onyekachi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday welcomed the President of Chad, Mahamat Idriss Déby, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, in a meeting aimed at strengthening diplomatic and strategic relations between the two neighbouring countries.

The meeting, which was held behind closed doors, focused on areas of mutual interest, including regional security, economic cooperation, trade relations, and development initiatives. The engagement reflects ongoing efforts by both nations to deepen bilateral cooperation and reinforce their long-standing partnership.

The visit took place shortly before President Tinubu departed Abuja for Jos, Plateau State, where he was scheduled to commiserate with victims of recent attacks in the area.

Nigeria and Chad, both key members of the Lake Chad Basin region, have continued to work closely on security matters, particularly in addressing insurgency, terrorism, and cross-border criminal activities affecting the region.

President Déby’s visit is seen by observers as a move to further strengthen diplomatic ties and expand cooperation in security operations, regional stability, and economic collaboration between the two countries.

The meeting also highlights ongoing efforts by countries in the Lake Chad Basin to improve multilateral cooperation and jointly tackle security and development challenges facing the region.