President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria welcomed a trio of newly-appointed ambassadors to the nation today, highlighting a renewed commitment to fostering collaborations in critical sectors such as education, mining, culture, and tourism.
At the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu formally received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Jamaica, Lincoln Downer; High Commissioner of Australia, Leilani Bin-Juda; and Ambassador of Romania, Florin Talapan.
In separate discussions, the President underlined Nigeria’s readiness to support the incoming ambassadors during their tenure, reinforcing the country’s stance on promoting robust economic, cultural, and diplomatic bonds.
Speaking with High Commissioner Lincoln Downer of Jamaica, President Tinubu stressed the significance of bolstering trade, investment, and technical partnerships. He highlighted the potential for cultural and tourism collaborations that could benefit the youth in both nations.
“We have a cultural affinity with Jamaica and a lot of potential for cooperation,” noted President Tinubu.
In a reciprocal gesture, High Commissioner Downer conveyed his Prime Minister’s eagerness to foster bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including energy, trade, investment, culture, and tourism. He also hinted at a forthcoming Jamaican business delegation to Nigeria.
During discussions with High Commissioner Leilani Bin-Juda of Australia, President Tinubu acknowledged the enduring relationship between Nigeria and Australia, emphasizing shared interests in multilateral institutions.
President Tinubu lauded Australia’s prowess in iron ore export and highlighted the burgeoning potential for collaboration in the mining sector, building on recent initiatives by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development.
“We look forward to deepening our mutual cooperation, especially in mining and education,” stated President Tinubu.
High Commissioner Bin-Juda, the first Australian indigenous person appointed to Nigeria, expressed optimism about enhancing collaboration during her tenure, extending an invitation to President Tinubu to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.
Lastly, President Tinubu engaged with Romanian Ambassador Florin Talapan, affirming Nigeria’s intent to explore avenues for strategic collaboration, particularly in education, energy, and defence.
Ambassador Talapan highlighted plans to increase scholarships for Nigerian students in Romania, underscoring a commitment to fostering a robust partnership.
“Nigeria is a second home to me,” stated Ambassador Talapan, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and outlining ambitions for a lasting strategic alliance.
As Nigeria steers towards strengthening ties with Jamaica, Australia, and Romania, these diplomatic exchanges underscore a focused effort by President Tinubu’s administration to forge mutually beneficial partnerships in key sectors vital for national development. The engagements signal a promising trajectory for enhanced collaboration and friendship between Nigeria and these countries.
By Chief Ajuri Ngelale,
Special Adviser to the President (Media & Publicity)