By Levinus Nwabughiogu

ABUJA— President Muhammadu Buhari has been conferred with the highest national honour of Equatorial Guinea, the Grand Collar of the Order of the Independence.

The event took place, Monday night, in Malabo, the country’s capital city.

The honour came on the premise of President Buhari’s dogged fight against terrorism and Boko Haram insurgents on the African continent.

Expressing his gratitude for the recognition at the investiture ceremony, the President dedicated the honour to the people of Nigeria, who, he said, had worked tirelessly for peace in the country and Africa.

“I will like to express profound gratitude for the honour given to me and my people. There has never been a time for greater neighbourliness on our continent in the interest of peace, security and economic stability than now,” he said.

While urging a collective resolve on the part of African leaders to tackle some common economic challenges as a continent, President Buhari pledged that under his leadership, Nigeria would continue to make significant contributions to peace, political stability and progress in Africa.

Also speaking, President Obiang Nguema Mbasogo of Equatorial Guinea said the honour was conferred on Buhari for his “personal integrity, exemplary leadership style and courage to fight terrorism in order to ensure peace and safety in Africa.

“We deemed it fit and appropriate to honour this son of Africa for the great work he is doing, which includes tackling Boko Haram, which is a great menace to the continent.”