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Tinubu reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to West African unity, strengthens diplomatic ties
President Bola Tinubu has highlighted the importance of regional unity and cooperation, reaffirming Nigeria’s support for Mali’s democratic transition and the broader vision of a stronger West Africa.
In a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu, speaking on Thursday during the presentation of credentials by Mali’s Ambassador, Cheick Coulibaly, declared that West African nations are better off working together.
He welcomed the Malian envoy at the Statehouse in Abuja, assuring Mali of Nigeria’s readiness to assist in achieving democratic goals and deepen bilateral relations. “We are one in West Africa and Africa. No nation can succeed alone. We see Mali as a brother and are ready to collaborate and exchange ideas,” he said.
Coulibaly conveyed the fraternal greetings of Malian Head of State General Assimi Goita and expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s leadership and support in the sub-region, highlighting Nigeria’s contributions to UN peacekeeping missions across Africa.
In addition to Mali, President Tinubu received letters of credence from five other envoys, including representatives from the Netherlands, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, and Switzerland.
In addition to Mali, President Tinubu received letters of credence from five other envoys, including representatives from the Netherlands, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, and Switzerland.
The President used the occasion to call for enhanced cooperation to promote global peace, economic growth, and cultural exchange.
He praised Tanzania’s President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her leadership and acknowledged the significant Nigerian investments in Tanzania by companies like Dangote Group and UBA. “We should strengthen collaboration not only government to government but also people to people,” he said, noting the growing ties in film and sports industries.
With Russia’s Ambassador Andrey Podelyshev, President Tinubu highlighted the need to expand technical cooperation in steel production, science, education, and nuclear energy to support Nigeria’s growing population. He specifically mentioned the Ajaokuta Steel Complex as a key project requiring revitalization.
Addressing the Swiss envoy, Patrick Egloff, the President pledged regulatory reforms to create a more investor-friendly environment and resolve legal challenges that could hinder economic relations. Egloff noted expanding Swiss investments in Nigeria, including Nestlé and Lafarge operations.
Finally, the Bosnian ambassador invited President Tinubu to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina to witness the country’s development progress, a gesture warmly received by the Nigerian leader.
Addressing the Swiss envoy, Patrick Egloff, the President pledged regulatory reforms to create a more investor-friendly environment and resolve legal challenges that could hinder economic relations. Egloff noted expanding Swiss investments in Nigeria, including Nestlé and Lafarge operations.
Finally, the Bosnian ambassador invited President Tinubu to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina to witness the country’s development progress, a gesture warmly received by the Nigerian leader.
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