By Isaac Okoro
Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has issued a strong call for unity and deeper cooperation among West African nations, asserting that a collaborative approach is essential for regional stability and prosperity. He emphasized that individual nations cannot thrive in isolation, especially in the face of increasing geopolitical shifts.
Tinubu made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Letter of Credence from Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, the newly appointed Ambassador of the Republic of Mali. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to supporting Mali’s democratic transition and pledged assistance in any way possible.
“We should strengthen our bilateral relations, and it is hoped that Mali will achieve its democratic goals,” President Tinubu stated. “We are open to any support we can render. I want you to see yourself as a member of the family here.”
Addressing the Envoy, Tinubu acknowledged the growing influence of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), but stressed the importance of interdependence. “For me, we are one in West Africa and Africa,” he stated. “The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) has made its position clear, but no nation can succeed alone. We see Mali as a brother and are ready to collaborate and exchange ideas.”
Ambassador Coulibaly conveyed the warm greetings and appreciation of Malian Head of State, General Assimi Goïta, for Nigeria’s leadership and support across the region. “I wish to convey the fraternal greetings of the Head of State, Gen. Assimi Goïta, and the highest appreciation of the Malian people for the Nigerian leadership and support,” Coulibaly said. He further acknowledged Nigeria’s role as a diplomatic powerhouse and its contributions to regional peacekeeping missions.
“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. We know that Africans must solve African problems,” Coulibaly added, concluding with a reverent note: “I appreciate you as a leader and father in Africa.”
President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from five other diplomats, including the envoys from the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Russian Federation, and Switzerland. In each meeting, he reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to building bridges of cooperation for global peace, development, and mutual prosperity.
With Tanzania, Tinubu lauded President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership and pledged continued collaboration. The Tanzanian High Commissioner highlighted the significant role of Nigerian firms in strengthening the Tanzanian economy and cultural ties.
Regarding Russia, the President expressed Nigeria’s desire to revive old partnerships, especially in education, energy, and industrial development, citing the Ajaokuta Steel Complex as a priority. The Russian Ambassador reaffirmed his country’s commitment to ongoing agreements in nuclear energy and education.
Finally, with Switzerland, Tinubu assured that legal reforms are underway to boost investor confidence, while the Swiss envoy acknowledged the expansion of Swiss businesses in Nigeria and commended cooperation in security and intelligence.
The diplomatic engagements concluded with the Bosnian envoy extending an invitation to President Tinubu to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina, reinforcing Nigeria’s position not only as a regional leader, but as a vital global partner.
