Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, on Sunday to attend the inauguration of President Alassane Ouattara.
The 83-year-old leader, who secured a fourth term in the October 2 presidential election with 89.77 percent of the total votes cast, is set to be sworn in at the Presidential Palace on December 8. Shettima is in the country as President Bola Tinubu’s representative for the event.
Upon his arrival at the airport, Shettima was welcomed by Côte d’Ivoire’s Prime Minister, Mr. Robert Mambe; the Chargé d’Affaires of the Nigerian Embassy, Mrs. Item Akpama; along with other senior officials. According to a statement released on Sunday by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President will join several African heads of state and international dignitaries for Monday’s ceremony.
Nkwocha explained that Nigeria continues to show strong commitment toward supporting neighbouring African countries and maintaining respect for constitutional governance.
He added that Shettima’s presence at the inauguration reinforces Nigeria’s long-standing dedication to democratic values, affirming the importance of upholding the people’s choice and ensuring smooth leadership transitions throughout the region.
Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire share deep diplomatic and economic ties, working closely through ECOWAS and the African Union on matters concerning security, trade and regional development.
These cooperative efforts are guided by a Bi-National Commission and a number of agreements that include tackling human trafficking, improving agricultural output and expanding opportunities within the digital economy.
The large Nigerian population living in Côte d’Ivoire has also strengthened commercial relations and encouraged close social interaction between the two nations.
The Vice President is expected back in Abuja after the conclusion of the inauguration activities.
What You Should Know
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s attendance at President Alassane Ouattara’s inauguration reflects Nigeria’s continuing involvement in regional democracy and diplomacy.
His visit aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting constitutional continuity in West Africa, especially at a time when political stability across the region remains crucial. Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire enjoy long-standing cooperation through ECOWAS, the African Union and a series of bilateral agreements promoting mutual development.
The inauguration also underscores the countries’ shared interests in security, commerce and governance, supported further by the vibrant Nigerian community living in Côte d’Ivoire.
