Nigerian President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized that security would remain a challenge as long as there are unstable governments in West Africa region.
President Tinubu made the call in his office at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday when receiving United Kingdom’s Secretary of Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Rt Hon. James Cleverly MP.
Making reference to Democracy, peace and stability of sub-region, the President used the opportunity of the visit to decry the situation in Niger, the Sahel region and Horn of Africa where terrorists are finding comfort, asking the government of UK to support Nigeria to secure West Africa.
According to him, “We need a dynamic partnership on security and economic development because we don’t want terrorists to make Africa and our sub-region their nest.
“I am happy to know that the United Kingdom is ready to work with us in Nigeria and Africa. The United Kingdom must do more for the continent. We have not developed a competitive economy,” the President said.
In his remarks, Rt Hon. Cleverly congratulated the President on his election victory and the steps he has taken so far to reform the economy.
He saluted Nigerian leader for taking bold and decisive actions on fuel subsidy removal and on multiple foreign exchange markets which he pointed out will bring development to the country in spite of the current pains.
“I want to commend you for the decisions you have taken to reform your economy. Your economic reforms are bold and the actions taken have been decisive. Despite the initial pains these decisions will lead to economic prosperity for Nigerians.”
On the political situation in Republic of Niger, the UK Foreign Secretary offered his government’s support for the decision of ECOWAS and the leadership of President Tinubu in promoting democracy and stability.
“For us, our national interest is to see a peaceful and prosperous African continent because peace and security go hand in hand”, he said.
