President Muhammadu Buhari has received Equatorial Guinea’s highest national honour of the Gran Collar De La Orden De La Independencia, which translates to the Grand Collar of the Order of the Independence.
A statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, which announced this, revealed that Buhari, after receiving the honour in Malabo on Monday night, dedicated same to the people of Nigeria, who, he said, have worked tirelessly for peace in the country and Africa.
President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea said that the honour was conferred on the Nigerian President for his “personal integrity, exemplary leadership style and courage to fight terrorism in order to ensure peace and safety in Africa”.
“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,” he said.
In his response at the investiture ceremony, Buhari said: “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 Nigerian leader stressed that since African countries faced common challenges, they must strive to cooperate more to find workable solutions that will facilitate rapid socio-economic development on the continent.
He pledged that under his leadership, Nigeria will continue to make significant contributions to peace, political stability and progress in Africa.
