By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
The Federal Government of Nigeria has congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia on his re-election for a second term following the presidential election held on August 13, 2026.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia declared Hichilema the winner after he secured approximately 60 per cent of the votes cast in the election.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Nigeria commended the Zambian people for their participation in the electoral process and reaffirmed its confidence in the country’s democratic institutions and tradition of constitutional governance.
Nigeria also acknowledged the competitive nature of the election and urged all stakeholders to sustain dialogue, tolerance and national unity in the post-election period.
The Federal Government said Nigeria attaches great importance to its longstanding relations with Zambia, noting that the relationship is founded on shared historical experiences, African solidarity, mutual respect and common interests.
According to the statement, both countries, as members of the African Union, share commitments to promoting peace, security, democratic governance, regional integration and sustainable development across the continent.
Nigeria expressed its readiness to work closely with Hichilema and his administration to deepen bilateral relations and expand cooperation in areas including trade and investment, agriculture, energy, mining, infrastructure, education and people-to-people exchanges.
The government also recognised Zambia’s contributions to regional peace and stability, stressing Nigeria’s commitment to working with Zambia and other African partners to address the continent’s peace and security challenges through African-led initiatives, dialogue and cooperation.
As Hichilema begins his second term, Nigeria wished him wisdom, strength and success in the discharge of his responsibilities.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that his renewed mandate would contribute to Zambia’s peace, stability, economic development and prosperity.
Nigeria also wished the government and people of Zambia continued peace, unity, stability and sustainable development.
