By Fatoumatta L Sisay
The Foreign Affairs Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Yusuf Maitama Tuggar and delegation last week visited Banjul, on a one-day working visit to discuss key bilateral and regional issues. His Gambian counterpart, Dr. Mamadou Tangara, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad received him at the airport. Minister Tuggar started his visit with a courtesy call to His Excellency Muhammed BS Jallow, Vice President of The Republic of The Gambia at the State House. The Nigerian delegation and the Vice President’s discussion centered on bilateral matters and regional issues around peace, security, democracy and good governance. Minister Tuggar said The Gambia serves a pivotal role in the ECOWAS region, making it necessary for his delegation to engage Gambian authorities at the highest level on issues of regional interest.
Minster Tuggar and his delegation also visited the Ministry of Foreign Affairs along Marina Parade where both Ministers reaffirmed commitment to ensure strong bilateral relationship between The Gambia and Nigeria. They also highlighted areas of shared interest, particularly the education sector. Following a productive engagement, Minister Tuggar concluded his one-day visit to The Gambia and was bade farewell at Banjul International Airport by his Gambian counterpart. Also in attendance at the airport were staff of the Nigerian High Commission to The Gambia, led by their Charge d’Affaires Mr. Amali Musa Owoicho.