President Bola Tinubu, speaking in Abuja on Thursday, emphasized that the long-standing relationships between Nigeria and the Republic of France, the People’s Republic of China, and the Kingdom of Denmark should yield tangible economic benefits for Nigerians, particularly in education, health, and infrastructure.
The President shared his vision for expanding economic diplomacy during a ceremony at the State House, where he received Letters of Credence from Marc Fonbaustier, Ambassador of France; Jens Ole Bach Hansen, Ambassador of Denmark; and Yu Dunhai, Ambassador of China.
In discussions with the French Ambassador, Tinubu highlighted his close relationship with French President Emmanuel Macron, expressing that their diplomatic ties should result in clear benefits for citizens. He urged France to support Nigeria’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening institutions and improving citizens’ livelihoods.
“Macron has been a valued friend over the years, and I look forward to my upcoming state visit to Paris to deepen our relationship and ensure our citizens also gain from the diplomacy between our nations. Nigeria, as Africa’s largest country and ECOWAS headquarters, has an open-door policy, inviting your investors to take advantage,” Tinubu stated.
The French Ambassador affirmed Nigeria’s cultural richness and diversity, vowing to boost the partnership for shared economic prosperity. “Mr. President, I must commend your bold steps toward development and encourage you to continue for Nigeria’s benefit,” said Fonbaustier.
In his meeting with the Chinese Ambassador, President Tinubu expressed gratitude to President Xi Jinping for hosting him during his recent state visit to Beijing and his participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). He called on the envoy to work closely with Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to implement their agreements.
“I enjoyed my time in China, and I eagerly anticipate the fulfillment of the trade and economic agreements we signed to advance both our countries,” he said, underscoring the potential to leverage Chinese expertise in trade and infrastructure.
The Chinese Ambassador thanked President Tinubu for the successful visit, emphasizing its importance in advancing bilateral ties. He also shared ongoing programs to improve agricultural yields, offer mobile medical outreach for underserved communities, and foster educational exchanges to build technical and vocational skills in Nigeria. “Mr. President, you are a reformer, and reformers have our respect,” Yu added.
Welcoming Denmark’s Ambassador, Tinubu expressed optimism for strengthened relations with Denmark, a nation known for promoting democratic values and human rights. “We’re ready to collaborate, especially in areas that improve our people’s well-being. We recognize your achievements in the energy sector globally and hope to learn from them,” he noted, highlighting the ongoing success of the Danish APM terminal in Lagos.
The Danish Ambassador responded by detailing a new strategy to enhance relations with Africa, in which Nigeria, given its size and influence, will play a central role. “We recognize your influence both globally and regionally and look forward to expanding our trade and economic relations,” he said.
