In a show of solidarity and diplomatic relations, Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio arrived in Abuja, the capital of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, yesterday to attend the highly anticipated inauguration of President-Elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The inauguration ceremony, scheduled for today, May 29, 2023, marks a significant milestone for Nigeria as it welcomes its 5th President since the restoration of democracy in 1999.

“Today, I arrived in Abuja, the Federal Republic of Nigeria to attend the inauguration of President-Elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu (on May 29, 2023. I will be joining other world leaders in witnessing the inauguration of Nigeria’s 5th President since the return of democracy to the country in 1999,” President Bio posted on Twitter.

President Bio’s presence in Abuja underscores the importance of international cooperation and the strengthening of ties between African nations. As a fellow leader on the African continent, President Bio’s attendance at the inauguration exemplifies the support and goodwill extended by Sierra Leone to Nigeria on this auspicious occasion.

President Bio is expected to engage in bilateral talks and participate in various ceremonial events throughout his visit. His participation in the inauguration ceremony will not only reaffirm Sierra Leone’s commitment to regional cooperation but also provide an opportunity for fruitful discussions on shared challenges and opportunities.

The inauguration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the 16th President of Nigeria holds great significance for the nation and its people. Tinubu’s electoral victory is being challenged by opposition rivals. On Tuesday, a tribunal will begin to hear the main arguments in the election petition.

The presence of President Bio, along with other 20 African leaders, underscores the continent’s interest and recognition of Nigeria’s democratic progress.