Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen its global alliances and deepen mutually beneficial partnerships as he formally received a new set of foreign envoys at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The ceremony, held inside the Council Chamber of the State House, marked the official commencement of duty for 21 ambassadors and high commissioners appointed by their respective nations to Nigeria.
The event signalled a renewed phase in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements as representatives from various continents presented their Letters of Credence—an international protocol that formally introduces them to their host country. Countries spanning Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, the Caribbean and Africa were represented, underscoring Nigeria’s far-reaching diplomatic appeal and strategic relevance.
Addressing the diplomats, President Tinubu spoke with deliberate emphasis on the administration’s commitment to peace, regional stability and shared prosperity. He reiterated that Nigeria, despite ongoing challenges common to many developing nations, remains firmly positioned to serve as a pillar of stability in West Africa and a dependable global partner.
He explained that his government is anchored on rebuilding strong democratic systems, introducing bold fiscal reforms and creating a more functional investment environment capable of attracting both foreign and domestic capital. According to the President, Nigeria’s reform agenda is designed not only to resuscitate key sectors but also to position the country as an innovation-driven economy with the infrastructure needed to sustain long-term growth.
President Tinubu urged the envoys to engage with openness, curiosity and determination, noting that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stands ready to support their missions. He encouraged them to explore opportunities that exist across Nigeria’s economy, from the fast-evolving technology ecosystem to renewable energy, mining, agriculture, transportation, financial services, education, and the creative industries. He added that Nigeria welcomes deeper defence cooperation, especially in counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, intelligence sharing and maritime security—areas that continue to shape Nigeria’s regional engagements.
The President acknowledged the growing complexities of global affairs, including climate change challenges, economic shocks, humanitarian crises and transnational security threats. He insisted that the world has reached a point where bilateral and multilateral cooperation is no longer optional but absolutely necessary. Nigeria, he assured the diplomats, remains committed to providing leadership, particularly within ECOWAS, where it continues to play a pivotal role in conflict management, economic harmonisation and defence collaboration.
Tinubu encouraged the envoys to cultivate direct relationships with state governments, local institutions, civil society, and the private sector, noting that Nigeria’s strength lies not only in its federal structure but also in its vibrant sub-national dynamics. He urged them to travel across the country, study Nigeria’s diversity firsthand and explore the possibilities that each region offers.
Speaking on behalf of the diplomats, Japan’s Ambassador, Suzuki Hideo, described the moment as a significant diplomatic milestone. He said the honour of presenting their Letters of Credence in Nigeria reflects a shared commitment to strengthening ties with a country that continues to lead economically and politically within ECOWAS and the broader African continent.
Ambassador Hideo offered glowing commendations to President Tinubu, noting that the international community is watching Nigeria’s reform efforts with keen interest. He praised the administration’s economic policies, which he said reflect boldness and foresight, and highlighted the steps being taken by the government to stabilise the economy, restore investor confidence and build a more inclusive national framework.
The Japanese envoy also commended the renewed push on national security, pointing out that Nigeria’s intensified counter-terrorism strategies demonstrate political will and determination. According to him, these efforts are vital not just for Nigeria but for the stability of the entire West African region.
Hideo further highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to peacekeeping, continental diplomacy and regional economic integration. He described Nigeria as a nation that, despite its challenges, continues to set the pace for democratic stability, economic resilience and cultural influence across Africa. He noted that for many countries, stronger ties with Nigeria are not just beneficial—they are strategically essential.
Throughout the ceremony, the atmosphere reflected optimism, with the envoys expressing readiness to begin work immediately. Many of them are expected to initiate discussions on trade agreements, cultural exchanges, educational partnerships, defence cooperation and expanded investment portfolios. Their arrival opens new diplomatic channels at a time when Nigeria is actively seeking to reposition itself as a global investment destination.
The President concluded the ceremony with a reassurance that his administration remains committed to facilitating their work. He emphasized that his doors remain open and that the State House will continue to support diplomatic efforts that advance peace, development and mutual respect. He expressed confidence that their tenure in Nigeria will be productive and beneficial, both for their nations and for the Nigerian people.
The presentation of the Letters of Credence signals the formal beginning of interactions that will shape Nigeria’s international engagements in the months and years ahead. For the new envoys, it marks the start of what is expected to be a pivotal chapter in their countries’ bilateral relations with Africa’s most populous nation.
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