President Bola Tinubu has urged for enhanced synergy and coordinated development efforts to address the economic challenges facing African nations.
The president’s call came during a ceremony at the State House on Friday, where he received Letters of Credence from the newly-appointed ambassadors of Burundi, the Philippines, and Kenya.
In individual meetings with each diplomat, President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering warm, cooperative relations with their countries, emphasizing the importance of mutual efforts in promoting democratic values and economic growth.
During his discussion with Ambassador Mersole Mellejor of the Philippines, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s ambitious plans to boost natural gas production to satisfy domestic demand and enhance exports. He invited Philippine investors to explore the burgeoning opportunities in Nigeria, particularly within the energy sector.
“We have existing agreements to promote economic cooperation and trade, which we are eager to activate,” President Tinubu stated, reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to deepen bilateral ties.
Ambassador Mellejor lauded Nigeria’s significant role in Africa, noting the presence of over 3,000 Filipinos in the country, predominantly in the oil industry.
“The hospitality and beauty of Nigeria and its people are remarkable,” he added, expressing optimism for future collaborations.
In his meeting with Ambassador Edouard Nduwimana of Burundi, President Tinubu expressed solidarity with East African nations affected by recent floods, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action on climate change and environmental issues. He extended condolences to those impacted in Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia.
“We must unify our efforts to tackle environmental challenges, such as floods and droughts, which have severe humanitarian consequences,” President Tinubu asserted.
Addressing economic relations, the President pledged to pursue further cooperation in the oil and gas sector, following discussions with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye. Ambassador Nduwimana called for Nigerian investments in Burundi’s solid minerals sector and appreciated Nigeria’s potential support for flood relief efforts.
President Tinubu and Kenyan High Commissioner Isaac Parashina discussed their countries’ longstanding collaboration on various issues, including counter-terrorism, peace, and security. The President stressed the importance of continued partnership to promote Africa’s development across economic, social, political, and cultural sectors.
“We must focus on Africa’s growth and work together to address common challenges,” President Tinubu emphasized.
High Commissioner Parashina conveyed Kenyan President William Ruto’s interest in a high-level visit to further strengthen bilateral ties. He highlighted shared challenges and opportunities, such as combating terrorism, addressing climate change, reducing unemployment, and harnessing the potential of the youth population for economic growth.
This diplomatic engagement underscores President Tinubu’s vision of fostering unity and cooperation among African nations and beyond, as they navigate shared challenges and pursue collective prosperity.
