Buhari pledges assistance to Chad to strengthen MNJTF, LCBC
Abuja, Nigeria (PANA) – President Muhammadu Buhari has pledged Nigeria’s assistance to Chad to stabilise and return to constitutional order.
President Buhari spoke on Friday in Abuja while hosting Gen. Mahamat Idris Deby Itno, President of Transitional Military Council of Chad.
“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.
Buhari said the late Marshal Idris Deby Itno, father of Chad's current leader, “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.
President Buhari said Nigeria would help strengthen the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), adding: “We will also help you to ensure a smooth transition in 18 months, as you have promised your people.”
Lt. Gen. Itno thanked Nigeria for the solidarity shown after the passing of the former President, noting that the main objective of the Transitional Military Council “is the security and cohesion of our country.”
He recommitted to democratic, free, fair polls in 18 months, telling President Buhari: “You were very close to Marshal Itno. I’m here to reaffirm that relationship, and for you to support our transition.
“We rely on our brother country Nigeria, as we have shared history, culture and geography. We are ready to be guided by you in our journey to constitutional rule.”
-0- PANA MON/AR 14 May2021
