President Bola Tinubu has praised the Finnish government for its decisive intervention that led to the arrest and detention of Simon Ekpa, emphasizing that his administration will not tolerate actions or rhetoric capable of causing division among Nigerians. The President made this remark in Abuja while receiving the Letters of Credence from Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, at the State House. Tinubu’s spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, shared details of the event in a statement.
Tinubu expressed gratitude to Finland for its role in safeguarding Nigeria’s national integrity and preventing actions that could disrupt peaceful coexistence. Addressing the Finnish Ambassador, the President acknowledged Finland’s commitment to human rights, particularly in the case of Simon Ekpa, and reiterated Nigeria’s stance on unity and stability. “Nigeria is indivisible. We have endured turbulent times, and we will not promote terrorism. I believe in cohesion and cooperation as pathways to national development,” Tinubu stated. He also emphasized the importance of the rule of law as the foundation for democracy and national values.
The President noted that the Ambassador’s focus areas, such as ICT, agriculture, and education, align with Nigeria’s developmental priorities. He thanked Finland for its humanitarian support in the North-East and welcomed further collaboration in areas like energy and peace mediation.
Ms. Selin commended Tinubu for his bold economic reforms, acknowledging their challenges but stressing their necessity for Nigeria’s progress. She also noted improved bilateral relations following Simon Ekpa’s trial and expressed optimism about cooperation in energy and other sectors.
Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from Mr. Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria, and Hocine Mezoued, Algeria’s Ambassador. Speaking to the EU envoy, Tinubu highlighted the bloc’s role as a major trading partner and called for enhanced economic ties, particularly in digitalization and technology-driven development. Mignot recognized Nigeria’s potential, emphasizing the importance of leveraging its youthful population and fostering stronger partnerships.
In his meeting with Algeria’s Ambassador, Tinubu advocated for collaboration on the Trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project, emphasizing the need for African nations to unite for mutual development. Mezoued pledged Algeria’s support for Nigeria in advancing regional projects and negotiating better opportunities with global institutions, reaffirming the shared commitment to Africa’s progress.