Tinubu commends Finland for intervening in Simon Ekpa’s case

He emphasized that the government will not tolerate actions or statements that could create division among citizens.

President Tinubu made these remarks while receiving the Letters of Credence from the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, at the State House, as disclosed by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanugu.

He commended the Finnish authorities for their timely actions that protected Nigeria’s integrity and addressed threats to peaceful coexistence.

During the same occasion, Tinubu also received Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria, Hocine Mezoued.

“I appreciate your commitment to safeguarding human rights in our country, particularly regarding the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is indivisible. We have faced turbulent times, and we are not interested in promoting terrorism,” President Tinubu told the Finnish ambassador.

“I was born into activism, but not divisiveness. We need unity and cooperation to foster development. Our focus is on stability and cohesion to advance the nation,” he added.

The President acknowledged that the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has kept him informed, stating, “I understand the importance of the rule of law, which protects our democratic values and principles. We must uphold the rule of law.”

He noted that the ambassador’s priorities—such as ICT, agriculture, and education—would significantly contribute to Nigeria’s development.

“Nigeria is undergoing essential reforms to encourage growth and prosperity. I also appreciate the humanitarian support in the North-East and believe we can collaborate effectively,” he said.

The Finnish ambassador lauded President Tinubu for his courage in initiating reforms aimed at benefiting the economy and ensuring future prosperity.

“Simon Ekpa has been an obstacle to our bilateral relations, but cooperation between our countries is improving, and the National Security Adviser has provided all necessary evidence,” the ambassador stated.

“I commend you for the ongoing reforms in the country. They are challenging and painful, but they are essential for Nigeria’s progress,” she added. “Finland has also been involved in peace mediation and sees opportunities for Nigeria in the energy sector.”

In his meeting with the European Union Ambassador, President Tinubu highlighted that the EU is one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and urged the envoy to work towards increasing trade volume and strengthening ties.

He noted that Nigeria requires support in digitizing and automating its operations and services, emphasizing that the country’s vibrant, youthful population can support investments.

Ambassador Mignot noted that Nigeria possesses “many untapped potentials,” which could be realized through development cooperation and technology.

“We share a solid partnership based on common values,” he said.

President Tinubu also called for collaboration with Algeria to implement the trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project, stating, “We need to uplift one another in Africa; together, we will be stronger. We may face neglect or abuse, but we have nothing to prove to anyone but ourselves. We must elevate Africa together.”

The Algerian ambassador noted that the trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project and other regional development initiatives would have a significant impact on the continent.

“On behalf of the Algerian government and people, I extend greetings from our president and express my pleasure in our shared political, economic, and social values,” he added.

Mezoued affirmed Algeria’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in negotiations for improved livelihoods across the continent with multilateral institutions.