FG Reaffirms Support For Nigeria–São Tomé Joint Development Authority

The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening the Nigeria–São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Authority (NSTPJDA) as a strategic platform for regional cooperation, maritime security and sustainable resource management.

This is contained in a statement signed by the Spokesperson in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Kimiebi Ebienfa.

The statement noted that the Minister gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from the Authority at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tafawa Balewa House, Abuja.

The delegation, led by the Chairman of the Authority and Executive Director, Finance and Administration, Mr. Mohammed Lawal Ibrahim, briefed the Minister on the mandate, governance structure and activities of the bi-national organisation.

The delegation also sought the Ministry’s continued policy guidance and strategic support towards achieving the objectives of the Nigeria–São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Zone.

He also highlighted the governance framework of the Authority, noting that the Joint Ministerial Council serves as the highest policy-making organ of the bilateral arrangement.

Responding, Ambassador Enikanolaiye commended the Authority for its efforts in promoting cooperation between both countries.
He said, “The Federal Government remains committed to strengthening the Joint Development Authority as an important instrument for regional cooperation, maritime security, sustainable resource management and shared economic prosperity.”

The Minister assured the delegation of the Ministry’s continued support in facilitating effective coordination among relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies, while urging the Authority to sustain engagement with the Ministry on policy, diplomatic and intergovernmental matters relating to the Joint Development Zone.

The meeting reaffirmed the commitment of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Nigeria–São Tomé and Príncipe Joint Development Authority to deepen bilateral relations and ensure the effective implementation of the treaty governing the Joint Development Zone for the mutual benefit of both countries.

PR/Uju Oparaji