Jonathan Departs For Equatorial Guinea

LAGOS, March 21, (THEWILL) - In continuation of the federal government’s efforts to boost economic and trade relations between Nigeria and neighbouring countries, President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will today embark on a two-day state visit to Equatorial Guinea, the Presidency said in an emailed statement.

Full text of the statement reads, “President Jonathan will in the course of the visit hold talks in Malabo with President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo on various issues of mutual interest to Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea including the enhancement of maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, exploitation of oil and gas resources, and the enhancement of developmental cooperation between both countries.

President Jonathan will also lead a delegation including Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan of Delta State, Governor Ibrahim Geidam of Yobe State, Senator Ibrahim Gobir, Honourable Cyril Egwuatu, the Minister of Petroleum Resources, Mrs. Deziani Alison-Madueke, the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr. Olusegun Aganga, the Minister of Aviation, Princess Stella Oduah, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Dr. Edem Duke, the Minister of State (Defence), Erelu Olusola Obada and the Minister of State (Foreign Affairs), Dr. Nurudeen Mohammed to formal bilateral talks with the Government of Equatorial Guinea.

It is expected that new agreements on the strengthening of economic relations and developmental cooperation between both countries will be concluded and signed before the end of the visit on Friday.

President Jonathan will also meet with Nigerians resident in Equatorial Guinea before returning to Abuja.”