President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of sustaining democracy and its institutions on Thursday in Abuja. He made clear that while protests are part of democracy, the government will not tolerate demonstrations that destroy lives and property.
Tinubu spoke at the Presidential Villa when he received the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr. “Our relationship with America is rich,” Tinubu said. “We believe in democracy and freedom.”
Tinubu acknowledged the efforts of past US ambassadors during Nigeria’s transition to democracy. “We remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter,” he noted. He expressed optimism about continued cooperation between Nigeria and the US on shared goals and democratic values.
Recalling Nigeria’s fight against dictatorship, Tinubu highlighted his involvement in peaceful protests. “We made our voices heard without destroying property,” he said. “We have ensured 25 years of unbroken democracy and will maintain it.”
He reiterated that while demonstrations are part of democracy, they should not lead to violence. “We will never encourage protests that destroy lives and property,” Tinubu stated.
Welcoming the US State Department’s recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role, Tinubu urged more US engagement in Africa. “Nigeria is ready to play its role as Africa’s largest democracy,” he said. “We need more US partnerships that benefit both sides.”
Ambassador Mills affirmed US support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged to support Nigeria’s bigger roles internationally. “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values,” Mills said. “We are ready to support you.”
Mills announced the establishment of a special office at the US Embassy to work closely with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on cybercrime issues. He expressed the US’s commitment to expanding cooperation with Nigeria on this front.
Earlier, Tinubu received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Mr Aiyub Bin Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Ms Phild Nani Kereng. He discussed improving trade balances and bilateral relations with both diplomats.
“We must improve the trade balance with Malaysia,” Tinubu said, emphasizing economic diversification. He noted the attractiveness of Malaysia for Nigerian students and anticipated their contributions to Nigeria’s agriculture and ICT sectors.
The Malaysian High Commissioner expressed interest in strengthening ties with Nigeria ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations in 2025. “We are keen on cooperation in education and financial services,” he said.
In his meeting with the Botswana High Commissioner, Tinubu expressed readiness to enhance cultural and economic cooperation with Botswana. He acknowledged Botswana’s progress in livestock development and mentioned Nigeria’s plans to create a ministry for this sector.
“The committee’s report on livestock development will be ready in two weeks,” Tinubu said. “Africa’s solutions are in our hands. We must help ourselves.”
President Tinubu described Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi as a good friend and appreciated his attendance at Tinubu’s inauguration. High Commissioner Kereng highlighted Botswana’s commitment to livestock vaccine production and partnership with Nigeria.
She admired Nigeria’s arts, entertainment, and culture, noting that Botswana’s youth could learn much from Nigeria’s creative economy. “My visit fulfils my president’s vision of improved relations with Nigeria,” Kereng said. “I will work hard to achieve these objectives.”
Source: Vanguard
