Tinubu calls for synergy to address economic challenges

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President Bola Tinubu has called for greater synergy and coordinated efforts to address economic challenges within African nations.

President Tinubu made the appeal during a ceremony at the State House on Friday, where newly-appointed ambassadors presented their Letters of Credence.

The ambassadors included Edouard Nduwimana, Burundi’s Ambassador to Nigeria; Mersole Mellejor, the Philippines’ Ambassador to Nigeria; and Isaac Parashina, Kenya’s High Commissioner to Nigeria.

In separate meetings, President Tinubu emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining warm and cooperative relations with their respective countries. 

He stressed that Nigeria remains a steadfast partner in promoting democratic values and economic opportunities that benefit citizens of all partner nations.

In his discussion with the Philippines’ ambassador, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s initiative to expand natural gas production to meet domestic needs and increase exports. He encouraged the ambassador to attract investors from the Philippines to explore opportunities in Nigeria.

“We have cordial relations with the Philippines and previous agreements to promote economic cooperation and trade that have not yet been implemented. We are ready to enhance bilateral relations and economic ties,” President Tinubu said.

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Ambassador Mellejor acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership in Africa, noting its position as the continent’s largest economy, population, and democracy. 

He expressed his country’s interest in expanding economic ties with Nigeria and highlighted the presence of over 3,000 Filipinos working mainly in Nigeria’s oil industry.

“We appreciate the hospitality extended to our citizens here, and I am fascinated by the beauty and hospitality of Nigeria,” the Ambassador remarked.

In his meeting with the Burundian Ambassador, President Tinubu addressed recent floods in East Africa, stressing the need for African leaders to collaborate on environmental and climate challenges. 

He extended condolences to the affected nations, including Burundi, Kenya, Tanzania, and Somalia.

“We must work together to tackle environmental challenges such as floods and droughts and their humanitarian impacts on our people,” President Tinubu stated. 

He also pledged to follow up on discussions with Burundian President Evariste Ndayishimiye regarding cooperation in the oil and gas sector.

Ambassador Nduwimana highlighted the impact of torrential rains and rising water levels in Lake Tanganyika on Burundians. 

He sought Nigeria’s support for relief efforts and invited Nigerian investments in Burundi’s solid minerals sector, while expressing interest in Nigeria’s oil sector.

“We recognize Nigeria’s developmental strides and seek Nigerian investors in our solid minerals sector. My President is keen to pursue further opportunities in Nigeria’s oil sector,” the Ambassador said.

During his meeting with the Kenyan High Commissioner, President Tinubu noted the collaboration between Nigeria and Kenya on issues such as counter-terrorism, peace, and security in Africa. 

He emphasised the importance of continued cooperation to address common challenges and promote Africa’s development.

“Africa’s development should be central to our relations, encompassing economic, trade, social, political, and cultural sectors,” President Tinubu asserted. 

High Commissioner Parashina conveyed President William Ruto’s desire for a high-level visit to strengthen bilateral relations further. 

He acknowledged shared challenges and opportunities, such as combating terrorism, climate change, unemployment, and leveraging the youth population for economic growth.