Vice President Shettima Receives Congolese Prime Minister, Commends Country’s Role in Regional Stability

Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening diplomatic ties with the Republic of Congo, acknowledging the leadership of President Denis Sassou-Nguesso in fostering peace and stability across Africa’s Great Lakes region.

Speaking on Friday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the Prime Minister of Congo, Anatole Collinet Makosso, the Vice President stated that Nigeria would give due consideration to Congo’s request for support in its bid for the leadership of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

“President Denis Sassou-Nguesso is one of the greatest stabilisers on the African continent. He is well-respected and has the experience and exposure to provide leadership in a turbulent region. Your country remains a beacon of hope and stability,” Shettima said.

Receiving the delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Shettima assured the visiting Prime Minister that Congo’s request would be communicated to the President.

“Be rest assured that all the issues raised, particularly your request for Nigeria’s endorsement of Firmin Edouard Matoko for the position of Director-General of UNESCO, will be conveyed to the President. I am hopeful that he will consider your request positively. What unites us as Africans is far greater than what divides us,” he added.

Prime Minister Anatole Collinet Makosso, who delivered a special message from President Denis Sassou-Nguesso to President Tinubu, called for deeper ties between both nations. He appealed for Nigeria’s support for Matoko, a seasoned diplomat and former senior UNESCO official with over three decades of service in the organisation.

“We are not putting him forward simply because he is Congolese, but because of his competence,” the Prime Minister said. “Matoko joined UNESCO in 1990 and held several key positions, including Director of multiple regional offices, Director of the Africa Department, and ultimately Assistant Director-General for Priority Africa and External Relations.”

Makosso also extended appreciation to the Nigerian government and people for the humanitarian support offered to Congolese children, particularly through the Rochas Foundation, which provided educational opportunities to orphans and vulnerable children from Congo.

“Some of these children have graduated, and others are still in school. We are grateful to the Nigerian people and the Rochas Foundation for their kindness and support,” he said.

He further commended President Tinubu’s leadership roles within ECOWAS, the African Union, and the United Nations. The Prime Minister also expressed his condolences to Nigeria over the passing of former President Muhammadu Buhari.