MON JULY 27 2026-theGBJournal| African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on Monday received Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, for a courtesy meeting ahead of the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council.
The meeting, held at the AU headquarters, comes as ministers from member states gather to deliberate on key continental policy and governance issues expected to shape the agenda for the upcoming African Union Summit.
The Chairperson during the meeting, congratulated Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu on her appointment, expressing confidence that her extensive experience and leadership would serve not only the interests of Nigeria but also contribute meaningfully to advancing the collective aspirations of the African continent.
They also took the opportunity to discuss the evolving situation in West Africa and the Sahel, where they exchanged views on the prevailing peace, security and humanitarian challenges.
The Chairperson paid tribute to Nigeria’s longstanding leadership within both the AU and ECOWAS, acknowledging the country’s pivotal role in promoting regional peace, stability and integration.
He encouraged Nigeria to continue its engagement in addressing the region’s complex challenges.
Mr. Youssouf also commended the contribution of Nigerian entrepreneur Mr. Aliko Dangote, noting that his investments in Nigeria and across Africa exemplify the transformative potential of African-led private sector investment in advancing regional integration, strengthening industrialisation and self-reliance in strategic sectors, and creating employment opportunities across the continent.
Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu thanked the Chairperson for his leadership of the Commission, noting that the new leadership has brought renewed dynamism and fresh perspectives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of the Union in delivering on its continental mandate.
The Chairperson expressed his appreciation to the Minister for attending the Forty-Ninth Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and wished her every success in her maiden participation in the Council’s deliberations.
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