Tinubu restates commitment to democracy during meeting with US Ambassador

By Kunle Sanni

In a meeting with newly appointed US Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr., President Bola Tinubu emphasized the importance of sustaining democracy and its institutions, while noting that protests are a vital part of democratic processes.

However, he asserted that no government would tolerate demonstrations leading to the destruction of lives and property.

Speaking on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the United States.

“Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter,” he said.

President Tinubu stressed the need for continued cooperation between Nigeria and the United States on shared goals and democratic values. Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, he recalled the peaceful protests during the military era and reiterated his commitment to maintaining Nigeria’s 25 years of unbroken democracy.

“In as much as we believe that demonstrations are part of democracy, we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property,” he stated.

President Tinubu also welcomed the U.S. State Department’s recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role as Africa’s largest democracy and called for increased U.S. attention to the continent.

“Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides,” he added.

Ambassador Mills affirmed the United States’ support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged to enhance Nigeria’s role in the international arena.

“Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support,” Mills said. He also announced the establishment of a special office at the Embassy to work closely with Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on cybercrimes.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Nigeria, Mr. Aiyub Bin Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Ms. Phild Nani Kereng.

In his meeting with the Malaysian High Commissioner, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of improving the balance of trade between Nigeria and Malaysia.

“Diversification of the economy is uppermost on my Renewed Hope Agenda for Nigeria. We must look at how we can improve the balance of trade with Malaysia,” he said. He also noted the appeal of Malaysian education to Nigerian students and their potential contributions to critical sectors such as agriculture and ICT.

Mr. Aiyub Bin Omar expressed Malaysia’s eagerness to strengthen relations with Nigeria ahead of the 50th anniversary of their bilateral relations in 2025.

“We are pleased with our cooperation in the areas of education. We are also keen on working with Nigerian partners in the financial services sector,” he stated.

During his audience with the High Commissioner of Botswana, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s readiness to develop robust cultural and economic cooperation with Botswana. He acknowledged Botswana’s advancements in livestock development and mentioned a committee’s ongoing work to create a ministry of livestock development in Nigeria. “Africa’s solution is in our hands. Nobody will help us if we do not help ourselves,” he remarked.

High Commissioner Kereng expressed Botswana’s commitment to leading in livestock vaccine production and partnering with Nigeria in this area. She also praised Nigeria’s arts, entertainment, and culture, noting that Botswana’s youth have much to learn from Nigeria’s vibrant creative economy.

“My coming to Nigeria fulfills my President’s vision of improved relations with Nigeria, and I will work very hard to achieve these objectives,” she said.