Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari on Friday promised new Chadian leader, General Mahamat Idriss Deby, of the country’s assistance.
Buhari who made the promise while he received the new Chadian helmsman at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, told him that Nigeria would assist the Republic of Chad to stabilise and return to constitutional order.
It would be recalled that General Deby came to power after his father, President Idriss Déby Itno, died of his injuries from clashes with rebels in the north of the country in April.
According to a statement issued by Presidential Spokesman, Femi Adesina, after the meeting, Buhari observed that the country set up the transitional council, headed by the son of the deceased, and a return to democratic order is expected in 18 months.
“We are bound together by culture and geography and we will help in all ways we can.
“Nigerians know and appreciate the role Chad played in helping us to combat terrorism and we will continue the collaboration,” Buhari said.
President Buhari said the late Itno “was a personal friend and a friend of Nigeria and Chad has been very steadfast in defending Nigeria,” so the country should not hesitate to ask for help in areas it deemed necessary.
He added that Nigeria would help strengthen the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF).
“We will also help you to ensure a smooth transition in 18 months, as you have promised your people,” Buhari assured.
Responding, General Deby thanked Nigeria for the solidarity shown after the passage of his father, noting that the main objective of the Transitional Military Council is the security and cohesion of the nation.
