President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated Nigeria’s unwavering support for Mali’s journey toward democratic governance and called for enhanced economic ties between the two nations. Emphasising the strength of regional unity, the President underlined that West African nations thrive best when working together.
He made these remarks while receiving the Letter of Credence from Mali’s new Ambassador, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, in Abuja on Thursday. According to a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed confidence in Mali’s democratic aspirations and pledged continued cooperation.
“For me, we are one in West Africa and Africa. 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.
“I can assure you that Nigeria is home for you. When you feel like seeing us, our doors will always be open,” President Tinubu said.
Ambassador Coulibaly conveyed his government’s appreciation for Nigeria’s leadership and solidarity, particularly in regional matters.
“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,” he said.
The envoy commended Nigeria’s ongoing contributions to peacekeeping missions across Africa and reaffirmed Mali’s view of Nigeria as a key partner.
“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.
“I appreciate you as a leader and father in Africa,” Coulibaly added.
In a wider diplomatic engagement, President Tinubu also accepted credentials from five other ambassadors, calling for deeper international cooperation to foster peace, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity.
The envoys included Ambassador Bengt Van Loosdrecht of the Netherlands; High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele of Tanzania; non-resident Ambassador Dr Sabit Subasic of Bosnia and Herzegovina; Ambassador Andrey Leonidovich Podelyshev of Russia; and Ambassador Patrick Egloff of Switzerland.
Speaking with the Tanzanian High Commissioner, President Tinubu praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s dynamic leadership and her role within the African Union.
“We will continue to work together. You can see the situation across the world. No one can do it alone. We will continue to collaborate in areas of knowledge and technical know-how,” he stated.
High Commissioner Kakele recognised Nigeria’s growing investment footprint in Tanzania, highlighting the involvement of companies such as the Dangote Group, UBA, GTB, and Sahara Energy.
“We should strengthen collaboration not only government to government but also people to people, as we see in the film industry and sports. Nigeria has a vibrant and wonderful film industry, and it is collaborating with Tanzania,” he said.
In discussions with the Russian envoy, President Tinubu acknowledged the historical technical cooperation between both countries and signalled a renewed interest in advancing joint efforts in steel production, education, and energy development.
“Our partnership has been fulfilling, but we need more technological support with our rapidly growing population. The Ajaokuta Steel Complex, constructed by Russian companies, will only realise its potential when fully operational,” he said.
Ambassador Podelyshev reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to extending cooperation, particularly in education and nuclear energy, noting the continuation of agreements in that sector.
President Tinubu also received Switzerland’s Ambassador Patrick Egloff, assuring him of reforms to attract greater foreign investment and streamline legal frameworks that may deter economic progress.
“We will address any legal issues that could impede progress in our economic relations,” the President said.
Ambassador Egloff cited the increasing presence of Swiss companies in Nigeria, including Nestlé and Lafarge, and applauded ongoing cooperation in security and intelligence.
During his meeting with the Bosnian ambassador, President Tinubu welcomed the progress in bilateral relations. The envoy extended an invitation to President Tinubu to visit Bosnia and experience the country’s development firsthand.