President Bola Tinubu has highlighted the critical importance of stronger collaboration and unity among African nations, stressing regional solidarity as a foundation for peace and development.
Speaking on Thursday while receiving the letter of credence from Cheick Oumar Coulibaly, the newly appointed Malian ambassador to Nigeria, President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Mali’s democratic transition and boosting economic ties between the two countries.
The president underscored the need for unity within West Africa and across the continent, especially in the context of the recent formation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) an economic bloc comprising Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso, which exited the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
“We should strengthen our bilateral relations, and it is hoped that Mali will achieve its democratic goals,” Tinubu said. “We are open to any support we can render. I want you to see yourself as a member of the family here.”
He added:
“For me, we are one in West Africa and Africa. The Alliance of Sahel States 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.”
President Tinubu assured the Malian ambassador that Nigeria remains a welcoming home, emphasizing open doors for dialogue and partnership.
In the same ceremony, the president also received letters of credence from five other diplomats: Bengt Van Loosdrecht (Netherlands), Selestine Kakele (Tanzania), Sabit Subasic (Bosnia and Herzegovina), Andrey Podelyshev (Russia), and Patrick Egloff (Switzerland).
He called on all envoys to prioritize enhanced cooperation aimed at fostering global peace, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity.
