Tinubu Backs Mali, Calls for West African Unity
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering support for Mali’s democratic transition and emphasized the importance of unity among West African nations, stating that no country in the region can succeed in isolation.
The President made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while receiving the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed Ambassador of Mali, Cheick Oumar Coulibaly.
“We should strengthen our bilateral relations, and it is hoped that Mali will achieve its democratic goals,” Tinubu said.
“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.”
Tinubu welcomed the envoy warmly, assuring him that Nigeria remains open to supporting Mali’s progress. “I can assure you that Nigeria is home for you. When you feel like seeing us, our doors will always be open,” he added.
Ambassador Coulibaly conveyed greetings from Malian Head of State, General Assimi Goïta, and lauded Nigeria’s regional leadership and its contributions to peace and security across Africa.
READ ALSO: Lagos govt warns landlords over illegal tenancy fees
“Africans must solve African problems,” he stated, echoing Mali’s commitment to regional solidarity.
In a broader diplomatic engagement, President Tinubu also received letters of credence from ambassadors and high commissioners of the Netherlands, Tanzania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Russia, and Switzerland.
Welcoming Tanzanian High Commissioner Selestine Gervas Kakele, President Tinubu commended President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s leadership and called for deeper cooperation in technology and education.
Kakele praised the impact of Nigerian businesses and culture in Tanzania, highlighting contributions from Dangote, UBA, GTB, and the film industry.
During his interaction with Russian Ambassador Andrey Podelyshev, Tinubu expressed a desire to expand Nigeria-Russia cooperation, particularly in steel, nuclear energy, and education.
He highlighted the Ajaokuta Steel Complex as a key area for renewed partnership.
Swiss Ambassador Patrick Egloff was assured of Nigeria’s commitment to improving its investment climate through legal reforms.
Egloff noted ongoing Swiss investments in Nigeria and collaboration on security and intelligence.
Tinubu also engaged with Dr. Sabit Subasic, non-resident Ambassador of Bosnia and Herzegovina, who extended an invitation for the Nigerian President to visit Bosnia, recognizing the growing ties between both nations.
The diplomatic engagements reflect Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to reinforce bilateral and multilateral relations, promote regional stability, and attract global investment.
