The flagging economic relationship between Nigeria and Togo is to be restructured, Nigeria’s Ambassador to Togo, Mr. Debo Adesina, said at the weekend.
Mr. Adesina spoke in Lome, the Togolese capital after presenting his Letters of Credence to President Faure Gnassingbe.
He said: “The key component of my mandate, as given by President Muhammadu Buhari, is to vigorously pursue economic diplomacy and strengthen our partnership in the areas of trade and economic development for the benefit of our people.
“Therefore, as Ambassador, I will seek to expand the frontiers of our trade relations and economic cooperation. I will work for the resuscitation of the Bilateral Trade Agreements between Nigeria and Togo as well as the reactivation of Nigeria-Togo Joint Commission.”
The ambassador, a former editor/editor-in-chief of The Guardian, also promised “to promote the change agenda of President Buhari by joining hands with you in your commtted fight against corruption and a relentless one against insecurity.”
He added: “The development of infrastructure, reducing unemployment , eradication of poverty and many other things in your Development Agenda are in tune with President Buhari’s vision. In Nigeria, therefore, you have a strong supporter.
“I am committed to sustaining Nigeria’s policy of good neighbourliness and continued quest for the unity of Africa. As Africans, we are one. Our borders are lines of convenience, not barriers to our unity and collective progress.”
Adesina commended the Togolese leader for “giving women, in very good numbers, positions of responsibility and authority in your government, I must remark, Mr President, you have set the pace in our region and set the tone for a chorus which must be sung by all who believe in the future of Africa and the pivotal role of our women in it.”
He described Nigeria and Togo as strong allies and strategic partners.
“We have a long history of togetherness. Our joint leadership in fostering unity in the West African sub-region and our shared vision of dignity for our people remain examples for many to follow.”
The Nation
