The Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, today received in audience, the Ambassador of the Republic of South Sudan to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Ambassador David Buom Choat, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
Discussions during the meeting focused on the ongoing peace process and national reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, as well as the strengthening of relations between the countries.
The Honourable Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to supporting durable peace, stability and inclusive dialogue in South Sudan, consistent with Nigeria’s longstanding engagement in the peace efforts in the region.
He called on the government of South Sudan to rededicate themselves to the implementation of the Revitalised Peace Accord on the basis of openness, transparency and inclusion that should culminate in the schelduled Presidential elections in December 2026.
He further urged the Government of the South Sudan to do more to end the conflict and disagreement in the country so as to create a peaceful atmosphere for the people, including a ceasefire in the White Nile region in the country.
Both sides recalled Nigeria’s significant contributions to the South Sudan independence process and underscored the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity between the people of Nigeria and South Sudan.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye recalled the Abuja-1 and Abuja-2 rounds of talks in the early 1990s, which laid a solid foundation and played significant role in the process leading to South Sudan’s independence in 2011.
Ambassador Enikanolaiye stated that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in his capacity as an active member of the AU Ad hoc Committee of 5 (C5) on South Sudan is very much interested and remains deeply committed to promoting peace and national reconciliation in South Sudan.
In this regard, the Hon Minister pointed out that the IGAD-AU led peace process remains the surest pathways to enduring peace, security and stability in South Sudan.
He further noted that Nigeria has continued to support manpower development in the country through the deployment of Technical Aid Corps (TAC) Volunteers and stands ready to deploy additional volunteers in response to requests from the government of South Sudan.
The Honourable Minister expressed deep concern over the recent assault on a Nigerian diplomat in Juba, the Capital of South Sudan. He strongly condemned the act and called for a thorough investigation, as well as the identification and prosecution of the perpetrators. He stressed that such reprehensible conduct on Nigerian diplomats will not be tolerated.
He further urged the South Sudanese authorities to take concrete measures to guarantee the safety and security of all Nigerian diplomatic personnel serving in the country in line with the provisions of the Vienna Convention, diplomatic norms and practices.
In his response, the South Sudanese Ambassador congratulated the Minister of State on his appointment, describing it as well-deserved in view of Ambassador Enikanolaiye’s extensive experience and distinguished career in diplomacy.
He conveyed the regrets of the Government of South Sudan over the unfortunate assault on a Nigerian diplomat and assured that the matter is currently under investigation by relevant authorities of his country.
Both parties emphasised the critical importance of holding credible, free, fair and inclusive elections as a necessary step towards consolidating democratic governance and and lasting peace in South Sudan.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to support efforts aimed at creating the conditions necessary for a successful electoral process. He also emphasised the need for the judicial proceedings involving the imprisoned Vice President, Rick Mercia to be completed in the spirit of equity, fairness and justice.
In furtherance of bilateral cooperation, the meeting underscored the need for the early establishment of a Nigeria–South Sudan Ministerial Commission. It was agreed that such a mechanism would provide a structured platform for regular high-level consultations and the advancement of mutual interests in political, economic, security and socio-cultural fields.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to constructive engagement with the Government and people of South Sudan in the pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Thursday 30, July 2026
