Jonathan Leads Representative Of Mali’s Coup Leader To Visit Buhari In Abuja

The President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday, hosted the representative of the Mali transitional government, Col. Abdoulaye Maiga at the State House in Abuja.

Maiga, who is the Malian Minister of Territorial Administration and Decentralisation was led to the State House by former President of Nigeria, Goodluck Jonathan who is a special ECOWAS envoy to Mali following the military take over of power in the West African Nation.

Naija News further reports that Maiga represents and bears information from the head of the Mali transitional president, Col. Assimi Goïta who led the coup that removed the democratically elected government in the country from office in May 2021.

Receiving the delegation at the Villa in Abuja, President Buhari charged the transitional government to ensure the speedy return of democratic rule in Mali.

The President further pledged Nigeria’s support to Mali in compliance with the rules set by ECOWAS.

“I am pleased you have briefed the ECOWAS Chairman too,’’ said President Buhari.

“Nigeria will work within ECOWAS limitations to assist Mali. Every country has its issues.

“We fought our own Civil War before, so we may not know the totality of the internal politics of each country.

“But we will make as much sacrifice as we can for Mali, within ECOWAS requirements.”

On his part, the leader of the Mali delegation assured that Col Goïta remains committed to the quick return of democratic rule within the shortest possible time.

He also briefed President Buhari on the outcome of the National Conference on State-Rebuilding, held in Bamako, from December 27-30, 2021.

The Special Envoy also conveyed the gratitude of his country to Nigeria and the ECOWAS Mediation Team, led by former President Goodluck Jonathan.