President Muhammadu Buhari late Monday in Malabo, Equitorial Guinea capital, received the host country’s highest national honour, the Grand Collar of the Order of Independence, and dedicated it to the people of Nigeria, who, he said, have worked tirelessly for peace in the country and in Africa.
Mr Femi Adesina, Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity), in a statement on Tuesday, quoted the President as saying at the investiture ceremony: “I will like to express profound gratitude for the honour given to me and my people.
“There has never been a time for greater neighbourliness on our continent in the interest of peace, security and economic stability than now.”
The President said that as African countries face common challenges, they must strive to cooperate more to find workable solutions that will facilitate rapid socio-economic development on the continent.
Buhari pledged that under his leadership, Nigeria will continue to make significant contributions to peace, political stability and progress in Africa.
President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea said that the honour was conferred on President Buhari for his “personal integrity, exemplary leadership style and courage to fight terrorism in order to ensure peace and safety in Africa.”
President Mbasogo said: “We deemed it fit and appropriate to honour this son of Africa for the great work he is doing, which includes tackling Boko Haram, a great menace to the continent.”
