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The Nigerian Government has congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election, reaffirming its confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
The congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement signed by Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa on Thursday.
“The Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria warmly congratulates the Government and People of Zambia on the re-election of His Excellency Hakainde Hichilema as President of the Republic of Zambia for a second term following the presidential election held on 13 August 2026,” the statement read.
Hichilema was declared the winner after securing approximately 60 percent of the votes cast.
Nigeria commended Zambians for participating in the election and said it “reaffirms its confidence in Zambia’s democratic institutions and longstanding tradition of constitutional governance.”
“Nigeria notes the competitive nature of the electoral process and encourages all stakeholders to sustain dialogue, tolerance and national unity in the post-election period,” the statement read.
Hichilema, leader of the United Party for National Development, was first elected president in 2021 after defeating then-incumbent Edgar Lungu. His 2026 re-election extends his tenure to 2031.
Nigeria said it places “great importance” on its longstanding relationship with Zambia, citing “shared historical experiences, African solidarity, mutual respect and common interests.”
The government said both countries, as members of the African Union, share commitments to “the promotion of peace, security, democratic governance, regional integration and sustainable development on the continent.”
Ebienfa added that Nigeria looks forward to working with Hichilema’s administration to “further deepen and strengthening Nigeria-Zambia bilateral relations” and expand cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture, energy, mining, infrastructure, education and people-to-people exchanges.
Ebienfa also noted Zambia’s role in promoting regional peace and stability.
“Nigeria recognises Zambia’s important contributions to regional peace and stability and remains committed to working with Zambia and other African partners towards addressing the continent’s peace and security challenges through African-led initiatives, dialogue and cooperation,” the statement said.
— Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Nigeria 🇳🇬 (@NigeriaMFA) August 20, 2026
