President Bola Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Mali’s democratic journey and strengthening bilateral ties, stating that unity among West African nations is essential for regional success.
Speaking on Thursday in Abuja during the presentation of credentials by Mali’s new Ambassador to Nigeria, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, Tinubu emphasized the importance of cooperation within the region.
“We must reinforce our bilateral relationship. Nigeria is ready to support Mali’s democratic transition in any way possible,” Tinubu said. “I see Mali as a brother. We are stronger together in West Africa. No country can stand alone. You are welcome here—consider Nigeria your second home.”
The President made these remarks as part of a statement issued by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga.
Ambassador Coulibaly conveyed greetings from Malian leader, General Assimi Goita, and expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent leadership in the region.
“The President of Mali asked me to deliver his fraternal greetings and thank Nigeria for its unwavering support,” he said, highlighting Nigeria’s role in peacekeeping missions and African solidarity. “He reminded me that I was being posted to Africa’s largest country, and though the task would be challenging, he encouraged me to find solutions through diplomacy.”
President Tinubu also received letters of credence from five other diplomats: Ambassador Bengt Van Loosdrecht (Netherlands), High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele (Tanzania), Ambassador Dr. Sabit Subasic (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Ambassador Andrey Podelyshev (Russia), and Ambassador Patrick Egloff (Switzerland).
Welcoming the Tanzanian envoy, Tinubu praised President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration.
“No country can do it alone. We must share knowledge and technical expertise,” he said.
The Tanzanian High Commissioner noted Nigeria’s growing economic footprint in Tanzania, citing investments by the Dangote Group, UBA, GTB, and Sahara Energy. He also highlighted cultural collaboration through the film and sports sectors.
During talks with the Russian ambassador, Tinubu acknowledged Nigeria’s longstanding technical ties with Russia and called for expanded cooperation in steel production, science, education, and nuclear energy.
“The Ajaokuta Steel Complex, built by Russian companies, holds immense potential. We must work together to make it fully operational,” Tinubu stated.
Ambassador Podelyshev expressed Russia’s commitment to strengthening ties, particularly in nuclear energy and education.
In his meeting with the Swiss envoy, Tinubu assured that Nigeria is committed to regulatory reforms that promote a more business-friendly environment.
“We will address any legal hurdles that may obstruct economic relations,” he promised.
Ambassador Egloff commended Swiss investment growth in Nigeria, referencing expansions by Nestlé and Lafarge in key Nigerian states, and ongoing collaboration in security and intelligence.
Tinubu also welcomed Bosnia and Herzegovina’s envoy, thanking him for the positive trajectory of bilateral relations. The Bosnian ambassador extended an invitation for Tinubu to visit and witness his country’s progress firsthand.
