**Tinubu Calls for Release of Detained South Sudan VP, Boosts Nigeria's African Role** As the African Union grapples with the complex challenges faced by South Sudan, Nigeria's former President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his country's unwavering support for the East African nation's peace process. Tinubu's message, conveyed by Vice President Kashim Shettima at a high-level meeting in Addis Ababa, comes as South Sudan struggles to implement its revitalised peace agreement, eight years after its adoption. The agreement, aimed at ending the country's civil war, has made slow progress, with opposition leaders, including First Vice President Riek Machar, still detained. Tinubu's call for their immediate and unconditional release is a significant boost to the peace efforts, and reflects Nigeria's commitment to promoting reconciliation and national dialogue in South Sudan. At the meeting, known as the C-5 Plus Summit, Nigeria urged South Sudan's authorities to prioritise unity, elite consensus, and credible elections as foundations for lasting peace. Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria's pledge to accompany the South Sudanese Transitional Government of Unity through its transition process, solidifying the country's role as a key player in African peace efforts. The summit, chaired by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, brought together African leaders, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, to discuss the progress of the revitalised peace agreement. The meeting also saw the African Union and regional bloc IGAD reaffirm their commitment to peace efforts, with a proposal to appoint a lead mediator to address emerging challenges. In a related development, Tinubu pledged Nigeria's full support for the Combined Maritime Task Force in the Gulf of Guinea, a move aimed at strengthening maritime security and combating transnational crime in the region. This support, which includes office facilities, naval vessels, helicopters, and personnel, is a significant boost to regional efforts to secure the Gulf of Guinea, a critical waterway for Nigeria's economy. As Nigeria continues to play a leading role in African peace efforts, Tinubu's message serves as a reminder of the country's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development across the continent. With the C-5 Plus Summit marking a renewed effort to secure a durable resolution for the South Sudanese people, Nigeria's support is likely to be crucial in the months ahead.