– President Tinubu Receives Ambassadors

By Olubunmi Omoogun – The Portuguese Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency, Jorge Adao Martins Dos Santos has said that investors from his country have a keen interest in Nigeria, and that the trade with Nigeria on gas predated the war between Russia and Ukraine.

While assuring Nigeria that that aspect of economic and bilateral relations will be sustained, he stressed that, “I will work on our agreements on improving economic relations. There is no shortage of interest in the areas of development where we can be partners. We are one of the highest buyers of gas from Nigeria, and we remain grateful for the supplies. 

“We have long-standing mutual relations when it comes to energy. Before the Russia and Ukraine war, we have been getting our gas from Nigeria. Portuguese companies are also handling the rail line construction from Kano to Niger Republic. It will be ready in two years,’’ the Portuguese Ambassador said.

The Portuguese Ambassador said this when he and other Ambassadors presented Letters of Credence to President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday. 

The other Ambassadors were the ones from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, His Excellency, Biu Quoc Hung; and that of the State of Kuwait, His Excellency, Salim Khalifa Mohammed Almuzayen. 

According to the press statement released by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, 

President Bola Tinubu called for the enhancement of the economic value of bilateral relations between Nigeria and partner nations.

The President expressed his appreciation for Nigeria’s long-standing relations with Portugal and the shared interest in the areas of trade and culture, as well as partnership in oil and gas, which has translated into gains for both countries.

Receiving the Ambassadors, President Tinubu said “It is good to have you in Nigeria. I am happy you are familiar with Nigeria and the environment. I believe that with your presence, our bilateral relations will be further improved. I am happy you are also present in other West African countries. 

“I have been informed of your economic interest in Nigeria. We need to work together for more localized productions as regards mineral deposits. I have an open-door policy, and you can always reach me through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and my Chief of Staff, Right Honourable Femi Gbajabiamila,’’ the President said. 

While also receiving the Ambassador of Vietnam, President Tinubu said the manufacturing sector in Nigeria is ready to benefit from the automating skills and technology of the Asian country.

Commending the Vietnamese Ambassador for coming to work in Nigeria. Nigeria’s President maintained that Nigeria shares a lot with Vietnam in terms of diversity and values. 

Tinubu said, “We really value our bilateral agreements with your country, Vietnam, especially in the area of technology. We look forward to adding more value to the partnership with you in terms of collaboration for development,’’

Responding, the Vietnamese Ambassador said: “Under your leadership, I see Nigeria overcoming most of her challenges and taking its place among the happiest people in the world.’’

Ambassador Hung added that he is in the country to strengthen relations and improve economic ties. 

In another meeting, President Tinubu thanked the Ambassador of Kuwait for his country’s long-standing and exciting relations with Nigeria and extended his appreciation to the Emir and the Crown Prince. 

“I am glad we are pulling strings to enhance the value of our relationship. We are both committed to the development of our people and will explore opportunities for economic ties. I have an open-door policy so you can always reach me,’’ the President said. 

The Ambassador of Kuwait assured the President that he would do his best to strengthen bilateral ties for the mutual benefit of both countries. 

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been applauded for his active efforts in building bridges with global leaders and connecting Nigeria to the world in order to enhance the nation’s economic growth.

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