By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
NIGERIA REMAINS firmly committed to Mali’s democratic transition and regional cooperation, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu told Malian Ambassador Cheick Oumar Coulibaly on Thursday during the presentation of his Letter of Credence in Abuja.
Emphasising unity across West Africa, President declared that no nation can succeed in isolation and urged deeper bilateral ties with Mali.
Addressing the Malian envoy, President Tinubu said, “We should strengthen our bilateral relations, and it is hoped that Mali will achieve its democratic goals.
“We are open to any support we can render. I want you to see yourself as a member of the family here.”
Recalling the shared history and aspirations of the sub-region, the President stressed that Nigeria stands ready to collaborate and share ideas with Mali under the spirit of brotherhood.
The Malian ambassador conveyed greetings from General Assimi Goïta and expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s longstanding leadership in the region.
He praised Nigeria’s military contributions to peace missions and emphasised Africa’s responsibility to resolve its own challenges.
“The Head of State particularly told me that I was on a mission to the biggest country in Africa.
He said he knows it’s not easy, but I should look for solutions as a diplomat,” Coulibaly said.
President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from five other foreign diplomats: Ambassador Bengt Van Loosdrecht of the Netherlands, High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele of Tanzania, Ambassador Sabit Subasic of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ambassador Andrey Leonidovich Podelyshev of Russia, and Ambassador Patrick Egloff of Switzerland.
Welcoming the Tanzanian envoy, the President lauded President Samia Suluhu Hassan for her bold leadership within the African Union and highlighted ongoing collaboration in trade, cinema, and sports.
The Tanzanian diplomat praised Nigerian investments in his country, notably from Dangote Group, UBA, GTB, and Sahara Energy, and called for deeper ties at both governmental and cultural levels.
With the Russian ambassador, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s intention to revitalise industrial partnerships and boost cooperation in nuclear energy, steel, science, and education.
Referencing the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, the President underlined the importance of Russian technical support in unlocking its full potential. Ambassador Podelyshev reiterated Russia’s commitment to expanding energy and academic initiatives.
During his meeting with the Swiss ambassador, the President promised regulatory reforms to attract investors and address litigation barriers. Ambassador Egloff acknowledged Switzerland’s growing footprint in Nigeria through companies like Nestlé and Lafarge, and commended existing cooperation in security and intelligence.
The Bosnian ambassador extended an invitation for President Tinubu to visit Sarajevo and welcomed progress in Nigeria-Bosnia relations.
Kudos to Bianca Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs! She’s a big diplomatic asset to the Tinubu government. I hope President Tinubu will be able to get a front-row sitting in the Vatican. This is a great opportunity to help burnish Nigeria’s sagging diplomatic reputation with several countries.