Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Vice President Kashim Shettima has landed in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of Ivorian leader Alassane Ouattara, marking the start of the latter’s fourth term in office. The ceremony is scheduled for Monday, December 8, 2025, at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan.
Shettima’s departure from Abuja and subsequent arrival in Côte d’Ivoire underscore the close diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire, as well as Nigeria’s commitment to regional solidarity and political cooperation among West African states.
The re-election of Ouattara, confirmed by the Constitutional Council following the October 25 poll, came after he secured approximately 89.77 percent of the vote. While his victory has drawn mixed reactions — with some opposition figures and civil society groups expressing concern over the exclusion of major rivals and the broader implications for democratic competition — the inauguration ceremony is expected to attract several Heads of State, senior government officials, and dignitaries from across Africa and beyond.
As part of the Nigerian delegation, Shettima will stand alongside other regional leaders and international guests during the swearing-in, which in addition to constitutional formalities, will provide an opportunity for Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire to reaffirm their bilateral commitment to security cooperation, trade, and cross-border ties — areas where both countries share longstanding agreements within regional organisations such as ECOWAS.
Observers note that Shettima’s presence at the ceremony reflects Nigeria’s interest in reinforcing diplomatic goodwill and stability in West Africa, particularly at a time when the region faces multiple security and economic challenges.
As the official inauguration approaches, all eyes will be on Abidjan — and on how Nigeria’s involvement might shape future regional collaboration as Ouattara embarks on his new term commanding Côte d’Ivoire.
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