Nigeria has strengthened its diplomatic engagement with key international partners as two newly appointed ambassadors formally commenced their assignments in Russia and Côte d'Ivoire. Ambassador Joseph Olusola Iji began his mission in Moscow, while Ambassador Ezenwa Chukwuemeka Nwaobiala officially assumed duty in Abidjan after presenting his Letters of Credence to the President of Côte d'Ivoire.
Engagement with Russia
In Russia, Iji was received yesterday by the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Georgy Borisenko, and presented copies of his credentials as Nigeria's Ambassador to the Russian Federation. The meeting provided an opportunity for both countries to review the state of bilateral relations and explore areas for deeper cooperation.
According to the Russian Foreign Ministry, discussions focused on the further development of the traditionally friendly relations between Nigeria and Russia, including efforts to strengthen political dialogue and expand cooperation in trade, economic development, science, technology and humanitarian affairs.
Iji is among the ambassadors deployed by President Bola Tinubu following the approval of new diplomatic postings earlier this year. Before his appointment to Russia, he served as Nigeria's Ambassador to Togo. His posting forms part of the Federal Government's efforts to reinvigorate Nigeria's diplomatic presence and advance the country's foreign policy objectives in strategic regions.
Mission in Côte d'Ivoire
While Iji was beginning his assignment in Moscow, another Nigerian envoy was formally taking up duties in West Africa. Ambassador Nwaobiala presented his Letters of Credence to President Alassane Ouattara of Côte d'Ivoire during a ceremony held at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan on June 18. The event marked the official commencement of his diplomatic mission in the francophone West African nation.
A statement issued by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, said the ambassador conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of President Bola Tinubu to President Ouattara and the people of Côte d'Ivoire. Nwaobiala also reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between both countries.
President Ouattara welcomed the Nigerian envoy and noted the importance of the cordial relationship between Côte d'Ivoire and Nigeria. The Ivorian leader expressed readiness to work closely with the ambassador to deepen bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, particularly regional integration and economic development.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the ceremony reflected the strong relations between both countries and their shared commitment to promoting peace, stability and prosperity in West Africa.
Ambassador's Pledge
Speaking at a reception organised in his honour by members of the Nigerian community in Côte d'Ivoire, Nwaobiala said Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire were linked not only by geography but also by history, common aspirations and a commitment to African unity and development. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the confidence reposed in him.
The ambassador pledged to discharge his responsibilities with humility and dedication while advancing Nigeria's interests and strengthening ties between the two countries. He also assured of his commitment to fostering greater understanding, mutual respect and productive collaboration for the benefit of both nations.
