President Bola Tinubu has highlighted the critical importance of sustaining democratic norms and institutions during a formal reception of the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr.
The president underscored that protests form a fundamental part of democratic expression but cautioned against demonstrations that lead to violence and property destruction.
“Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom,” President Tinubu stated, recalling the contributions of previous U.S. diplomats like Ambassador Howard Jeter during Nigeria’s transition to democracy. “We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.”
The president reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding 25 years of unbroken democracy, emphasizing the nation’s readiness to play an exemplary role as Africa’s largest democracy.
He called for increased U.S. engagement in Africa, noting, “Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides.”
Ambassador Mills echoed these sentiments, pledging U.S. support for Nigeria’s democratic and economic aspirations. “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support. I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side,” he said.
The Ambassador also announced the establishment of a special office at the U.S. Embassy to enhance cooperation with Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on cybercrimes.
In a series of diplomatic engagements, President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Mr. Aiyub Bin Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Ms. Phild Nani Kereng.
Addressing the Malaysian High Commissioner, President Tinubu emphasized the need to improve trade balance and economic diversification. “Diversification of the economy is uppermost on my Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigeria. We must look at how we can improve the balance of trade with Malaysia,” he said. The President also acknowledged the appeal of Malaysian education to Nigerian students and anticipated their contributions to sectors like agriculture and ICT.
The Malaysian High Commissioner expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral relations ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2025. “We are pleased with our cooperation in the areas of education. We are also keen on working with Nigerian partners in the financial services sector,” Mr. Aiyub Bin Omar remarked.
During his audience with the Botswana High Commissioner, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s plans for a robust cultural and economic partnership with Botswana. He acknowledged Botswana’s advancements in livestock development and mentioned ongoing efforts to establish a ministry of livestock development in Nigeria. “The committee is at work, and their report will be ready in the next two weeks. Africa’s solution is in our hands. Nobody will help us if we do not help ourselves,” he stated.
High Commissioner Kereng affirmed Botswana’s commitment to partnering with Nigeria in livestock vaccine production and expressed admiration for Nigeria’s vibrant arts, entertainment, and culture sectors. “My coming to Nigeria fulfills my President’s vision of improved relations with Nigeria, and I will work very hard to achieve these objectives,” she said.
