Abuja, Jan. 30, 2025 (Naija247news) – President Bola Tinubu has commended Nigerians in the diaspora, saying their positive impact in various fields abroad continues to inspire the younger generation and uplift Nigeria’s global reputation.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Speaking at the State House in Abuja on Thursday while receiving Letters of Credence from newly appointed envoys of Canada, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, and the Vatican, Tinubu emphasized the importance of Nigeria’s partnerships with key global allies.
Canada: Nigerians Excel in Education, Science, and Business
The High Commissioner of Canada to Nigeria, Mr. Pasquale Salvaggio, highlighted the contributions of Nigerians in Canada across education, science, sports, health, and business.
“The Nigerian diaspora in Canada is dynamic and strong. We have Nigerians in government, business, science, and sports. We want to build the ties further,” Salvaggio said.
He added that Nigeria remains Canada’s largest trading partner in Africa, with growing interest in oil and gas, ICT, and agriculture.
President Tinubu praised Nigerians abroad for their responsibility, civility, and excellence, affirming that their success stories serve as an inspiration for younger generations.
Sierra Leone: Strengthening West African Unity
In a separate meeting, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to West African development, emphasizing the long-standing bilateral relations with Sierra Leone.
“Nigeria’s decades-long investment in Sierra Leone has contributed to Africa’s progress and strengthened our regional ties,” he said.
Sierra Leone’s High Commissioner, Dr. Julius Sandy, acknowledged Nigeria’s unwavering support and noted the deep cultural and economic ties between both nations.
“In Sierra Leone, more Nigerians are doing business than Sierra Leoneans. Most of my teachers in school were Nigerians. There is no difference between a Nigerian and a Sierra Leonean when walking in the streets of Freetown,” Sandy remarked.
Ethiopia: Prioritizing Peace and Economic Cooperation
Welcoming the Ambassador of Ethiopia, Legesse Haile, President Tinubu stressed the need for African nations to work together in tackling insecurity—a major obstacle to development.
“Our challenge in Africa is insecurity. Insecurity detracts from development. We do not have anybody that will bring peace to us, except we work for it,” Tinubu said.
The Ethiopian envoy pledged to enhance cultural and economic ties, emphasizing Ethiopia’s aviation industry and cultural heritage as key collaboration areas.
Vatican: Acknowledging Catholic Contributions to Education and Poverty Reduction
Receiving the Apostolic Nuncio of the Vatican, Archbishop Michael Francis Crotty, Tinubu praised the Catholic Church for its investments in education and poverty alleviation initiatives in Nigeria.
“We have a lot of value for education in Nigeria, and the Catholic Church has done a lot in that regard, as well as in fighting poverty. Education reduces ignorance and poverty,” the President said.
As diplomatic engagements continue, Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to fostering peace, economic growth, and international cooperation with its global partners.
