Nigeria's presidency says a "major decision" would be taken this weekend on the crisis in The Gambia, where veteran strongman Yahya Jammeh is refusing to step down after losing an election last month. 

President Muhammadu Buhari's spokesman Garba Shehu said African leaders would meet in Accra on Saturday after the inauguration of Ghana's new president, Nana Akufo-Addo.

"A major decision on the impasse is expected to be taken at that all-important meeting. President Buhari is the chief mediator in the crisis and he is committed to ensuring that the logjam is resolved."

Regional leaders including Mr Buhari were unable to persuade Mr Jammeh to step down on a visit to The Gambia last month. 

A court case filed by Mr Jammeh seeking to annul the results of the December 1 poll has been adjourned at Gambia's top court until next week.   

The Economic Community of West African States (Ecowas) has said it could use force to make Mr Jammeh quit if he does not do so voluntarily when his mandate ends on 18 January.

The Gambia's army chief has pledged his loyalty to Mr Jammeh and there have been reports he has been attempting to recruit mercenaries from Liberia and Ivory Coast.