ABUJA – President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s pivotal position in Africa as a stronghold of peace during a series of diplomatic engagements on Friday in Abuja. Receiving letters of credence from various ambassadors, President Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s commitment to its role as a stabilizing force across the continent.
In a meeting with Egyptian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamed Ahmed, President Tinubu highlighted the longstanding collaboration between Nigeria and Egypt in promoting global peace and stability. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1961, both nations have worked closely on international priorities, including the advancement of regional peace, security, and stability. Discussions during the meeting also delved into the evolving situations in the Sahel and Sudan.
Addressing Egypt’s efforts toward brokering a truce in the Gaza crisis, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of regional stability, stating, “We need to do more. Stability in the region is of paramount importance.”
Ambassador Ahmed expressed President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s eagerness to strengthen economic ties with Nigeria, particularly in trade and investment. He highlighted the interest of Egyptian companies in expanding their presence in Nigeria’s market.
In another engagement with Major-General Sohail Ahmed Khan (retired), High Commissioner of Pakistan, President Tinubu stressed the significance of exchanging ideas to enhance security and defense cooperation. He emphasized the imperative of global collaboration in combating terrorism and violent extremism, stating, “We must do more to stop extremists.”
High Commissioner Khan acknowledged the demographic similarities between Pakistan and Nigeria and expressed a desire to elevate bilateral relations to new heights, reflecting on the potential for mutual growth and cooperation.
During a separate meeting with Ambassador Athanasios Kotsionis of Greece, President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to an open-door policy promoting collaboration and progress. He emphasized Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties with Greece and fostering cooperation to tackle shared challenges.
President Tinubu assured Ambassador Kotsionis of Nigeria’s efforts to create an enabling environment for socio-economic growth and development, underscoring the administration’s commitment to mutual prosperity.
