Tinubu Reaffirms Dedication to Democracy in Meeting with US Ambassador
President Bola Tinubu underscored the necessity of maintaining democratic norms and institutions during a meeting with the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. Tinubu emphasized that while protests are a fundamental aspect of democracy, any demonstrations resulting in the destruction of lives and property will not be tolerated.
In receiving the Letter of Credence from Ambassador Mills, President Tinubu remarked, “Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.”
President Tinubu expressed his desire for continued collaboration between Nigeria and the United States on shared democratic values and goals. He recounted his own participation in peaceful protests during Nigeria’s military era, emphasizing the country’s commitment to 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, which he intends to uphold.
“While demonstrations are a part of democracy, we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property,” Tinubu stated.
Recognizing Nigeria’s strategic role as Africa’s largest democracy, President Tinubu urged the US to increase its focus on Africa. He assured that Nigeria is ready to lead by example and called for greater US partnership that benefits both nations. “We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow,” he added.
Ambassador Mills reaffirmed US support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged to enhance Nigeria’s role on the international stage. “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support,” Mills said. He also announced the establishment of a special office at the US Embassy to collaborate with Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on cybercrime.
President Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Aiyub Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Phildi Kereng.
During his discussion with the Malaysian High Commissioner, President Tinubu emphasized the need to improve the balance of trade between Nigeria and Malaysia, aligning with his Renewed Hope Agenda focused on diversifying Nigeria’s economy. He acknowledged the appeal of Malaysian education to Nigerian students and looked forward to their contributions to Nigeria’s development in sectors such as agriculture and ICT.
In anticipation of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations in 2025, the Malaysian High Commissioner expressed enthusiasm for strengthening ties with Nigeria, particularly in education and financial services.
In his meeting with the Botswana High Commissioner, President Tinubu expressed a commitment to enhancing cultural and economic cooperation with Botswana. He highlighted Botswana’s advancements in livestock development and mentioned a committee report on creating a ministry of livestock development in Nigeria, which is expected soon.
The President extended his appreciation to Botswana’s President Mokgweetsi Masisi for attending his inauguration and welcomed Botswana’s interest in partnering with Nigeria on livestock vaccine production. High Commissioner Kereng expressed admiration for Nigerian arts and culture, noting the potential for Botswana’s youth to learn from Nigeria’s creative economy.
Ajuri Ngelale
