President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Thursday reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to global peace, cooperation and shared prosperity as he received Letters of Credence from 17 new ambassadors and four high commissioners accredited to Nigeria. The presentation ceremony, held at the Council Chamber of the Presidential Villa, drew diplomats from Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa and the Caribbean, marking a renewed chapter in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagements.
Addressing the newly arrived envoys, President Tinubu declared that Nigeria remains a loyal and responsible member of the international community and will continue to deepen relationships that promote collective security, economic growth and global stability. He urged the diplomats to work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant government institutions, noting that his administration maintains an open-door approach to all partners willing to collaborate with sincerity and shared purpose.
“On behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria, I warmly welcome you to the State House and congratulate you on your appointments as official representatives of your countries,” the President said. “Nigeria treasures the longstanding friendships and strategic partnerships we share across continents. Your accreditation today underscores the strength of our bilateral ties and our mutual desire to broaden cooperation in areas of common interest.”
President Tinubu highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to consolidate democratic institutions, implement economic reforms and expand opportunities for investment, innovation and sustainable development. He noted that his administration is committed to building a stronger economic foundation that encourages global investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s vast potential.
“We encourage deeper partnerships in trade, energy, agriculture, education, technology, defence cooperation and cultural exchanges,” he continued. “The world today faces evolving challenges — security threats, climate pressures, economic uncertainties and humanitarian crises. Nigeria stands ready to collaborate closely with your governments to pursue peace, stability and prosperity for all.”
The President further assured the diplomats of the full cooperation of the Nigerian government, emphasizing that their engagements in the country will receive priority attention. He expressed confidence that their tenure in Nigeria will be both productive and mutually beneficial.
Speaking on behalf of the new envoys, the Japanese Ambassador, Mr Suzuki Hideo, described the ceremony as historic, adding that Nigeria’s leadership role in ECOWAS and Africa gives it a unique influence in regional and continental affairs. He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, noting the administration’s bold economic reforms and security initiatives.
“We are filled with gratitude to have presented our Letters of Credence today,” Ambassador Hideo said. “This marks the beginning of a new phase in the relations between our various countries and Nigeria. Mr President, we hold in high regard your visionary leadership and dedication to Nigeria’s economic transformation. Your efforts to strengthen the fiscal framework, attract investment and promote inclusiveness have not gone unnoticed.”
He also commended the administration’s strengthened counter-terrorism strategies, acknowledging Nigeria’s crucial role in promoting political stability and economic prosperity in West Africa.
“Nigeria today stands as a beacon of resilience and promise,” Hideo remarked, reaffirming the commitment of the diplomatic community to supporting Nigeria’s development goals.
Thursday’s ceremony brought together representatives from a broad spectrum of nations, each expressing commitment to strengthening ties with Africa’s largest economy. The ambassadors who presented their credentials included Mr Suzuki Hideo of Japan; Brah Mahamat of Chad; Rodolf Estime Lekogo of Gabon; Mehmet Poroy of Türkiye; Muhannad M.A. Alhammouri of Palestine; Felix Costales Artioda of Spain; and Banbang Suharto of Indonesia.
Others were Ba Abdoulaaye Mamadou of Mauritania; Peter Guschelbauer of Austria; Thirapath Mongkolnavin of Thailand; Miah M.D. Mainul Kabir, High Commissioner-Designate of Bangladesh; Anna Westerholm of Sweden; Tomas Vyprachticky of the Czech Republic; and John Ballout Jr. of Liberia.
The President also received Letters of Credence from Mr Baba Jamal Mohammed Ahmod, High Commissioner of Ghana; Mr Abheshek Singh, High Commissioner of India; Mr Michal Cygan, Ambassador of Poland; Mr Roberto Mengoni, Ambassador of Italy; Mr Martins Podostavek, Ambassador of Slovakia; Mr Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, Ambassador of Iran; and Mrs Juliette Bynoe Sutherland, Non-Resident High Commissioner of Barbados.
The event concluded with assurances from the Presidency that Nigeria will continue to serve as a constructive partner committed to global cooperation, regional stability and international diplomacy.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President
(Information and Strategy)
December 4, 2025
