Nigeria to maintain stronger relationship with Benin Republic as Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim presents Letter of Credence

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with the Republic of Benin following the presentation of the Letter of Credence by its new Ambassador, Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim, to Beninese President Romuald Wadagni.

The development was announced in a statement issued on Sunday by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, who said the ceremony took place at the Palais de la Marina on July 10, marking the formal commencement of Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim’s diplomatic assignment in the neighbouring West African country.

Following the presentation, Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim held talks with President Wadagni on measures to deepen the longstanding relationship between both countries.

According to the ministry, the discussions centred on “issues of mutual interest aimed at further strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.”

The statement said both sides agreed on the need for the early convening of the next session of the Nigeria–Benin Joint National Commission on Bilateral Cooperation, while also exploring ways to expand private sector-led investments, strengthen collaboration in the energy sector, improve intelligence sharing, and advance other shared strategic priorities.

“The discussions focused on the early convening of the next session of the Nigeria–Benin Joint National Commission on Bilateral Cooperation, expanding private sector-led investments, enhancing collaboration in the energy sector, improving intelligence sharing, and advancing other shared priorities of strategic importance to both countries,” the statement read.

The ministry noted that the presentation of the Letter of Credence officially marked the beginning of Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim’s diplomatic mandate and reaffirmed the resolve of both countries to sustain close cooperation.

It added: “The presentation of Letters of Credence marks the formal commencement of Ambassador Adeola-Ibrahim’s diplomatic mandate and reaffirms the commitment of both countries to deepening cooperation, promoting regional integration, and strengthening the bonds of friendship and good neighbourliness.”