You have provided strong leadership – Buhari to Ethiopian leader

President Muhammadu Buhari has hailed his Ethiopian counterpart, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

Buhari and Ahmed met at the headquarters of the African Union in Addis Ababa.

“You are leading a country that is large and diversified, just like Nigeria, and I know the sacrifices required to make desired impact, especially in maintaining peace,” President Buhari said.

He also urged the Ethiopian leader “to stay focused on keeping the country together”.

Buhari added that Nigeria would support the war-torn East African country to achieve ‘peaceful co-existence and unity’.

“The President said Ahmed had provided strong leadership for the country, encouraging him to sustain the good work in ensuring even development,” Femi Adesina, Buhari’s media adviser said.

Adesina said Ahmed thanked Buhari for “encouraging unity and stability” in Africa.

“Ahmed noted that the African continent had been slow in growth due to conflicts.

“The Prime Minister said the resurgence of coups on the continent could further weaken institutions and reverse the gains of democracy, appreciating President Buhari for his position on zero tolerance for military interference in governance.

“Ahmed said collective and visionary leadership will move Africa forward,” Adesina added.