The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need to enhance the economic value of bilateral relations between Nigeria and its partner nations.
President Tinubu made this call while receiving Letters of Credence from the Ambassadors of Portugal, Jorge Adao Martins Dos Santos; the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Biu Quoc Hung; and the State of Kuwait, Salim Khalifa Mohammed Almuzayen, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale released a statement confirming the development.
While, expressing his appreciation for Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with Portugal, he highlighted shared interests in trade and culture, as well as partnerships in oil and gas, which have resulted in mutual benefits for both countries.
“It is good to have you in Nigeria. I am happy you are familiar with Nigeria and the environment. I believe that with your presence, our bilateral relations will be further improved. I am happy you are also present in other West African countries. I have been informed of your economic interest in Nigeria. We need to work together for more localized productions regarding mineral deposits. I have an open-door policy, and you can always reach me through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and my Chief of Staff, Right Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila,’’ President Tinubu stated.
The Ambassador of Portugal responded by expressing the keen interest of Portuguese investors in Nigeria, noting that trade in gas with Nigeria predates the Russia-Ukraine war and will continue.
“I will work on our agreements on improving economic relations. There is no shortage of interest in the areas of development where we can be partners. We are one of the highest buyers of gas from Nigeria, and we remain grateful for the supplies. We have long-standing mutual relations when it comes to energy. Before the Russia and Ukraine war, we have been getting our gas from Nigeria. Portuguese companies are also handling the rail line construction from Kano to Niger Republic. It will be ready in two years,’’ the Portuguese Ambassador said.
During his meeting with the Ambassador of Vietnam, President Tinubu noted the potential for Nigeria’s manufacturing sector to benefit from Vietnam’s expertise in automation and technology.
“Thank you for coming to work in Nigeria. We share a lot with Vietnam in terms of diversity and values. We really value our bilateral agreements with your country, Vietnam, especially in the area of technology. We look forward to adding more value to the partnership with you in terms of collaboration for development,’’ President Tinubu said.
The Vietnamese Ambassador responded positively, stating, “Under your leadership, I see Nigeria overcoming most of her challenges and taking its place among the happiest people in the world.” Ambassador Hung also emphasized his mission to strengthen relations and improve economic ties.
In another meeting, President Tinubu thanked the Ambassador of Kuwait for the long-standing good relations between Kuwait and Nigeria, extending his appreciation to the Emir and the Crown Prince.
“I am glad we are pulling strings to enhance the value of our relationship. We are both committed to the development of our people and will explore opportunities for economic ties. I have an open-door policy, so you can always reach me,’’ the President said.
The Ambassador of Kuwait assured President Tinubu of his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both countries.
