President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja following his participation in the Aqaba Process Heads of State and Government-level Meeting held in Rome, Italy. The summit, which convened global leaders to strengthen international cooperation against terrorism and violent extremism, focused particularly on the security challenges facing West Africa.
The Aqaba Process, launched in 2015 by His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan, is a strategic initiative co-chaired by the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the Government of Italy. This year’s edition took place at the National Gallery of Modern and Contemporary Art in Rome on October 15, drawing leaders from Nigeria, Chad, Paraguay, Sierra Leone, Togo, and Algeria, among others.
President Tinubu’s attendance underscored Nigeria’s commitment to regional and global security partnerships. On the sidelines of the summit, he held bilateral discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, focusing on intelligence sharing, border security, and counter-radicalization efforts.
“Nigeria remains steadfast in its resolve to combat terrorism and collaborate with international allies to ensure peace and stability across West Africa,” said Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The President departed Nigeria on October 12 and returned on October 18, reaffirming Nigeria’s active role in shaping global counterterrorism strategies. His engagements in Rome are expected to bolster Nigeria’s security architecture and enhance diplomatic ties with European and Middle Eastern partners.