Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
Nigeria’s Ambassador to the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, H.E. Ambassador Ezenwa Chukwuemeka Nwaobiala has formally presented his Letters of Credence to President Alassane Ouattara, officially commencing his diplomatic mission in the West African nation.
The credential presentation ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan on Thursday, with Ambassador Nwaobiala accompanied by his wife, Lady Chidinma Nwaobiala.
His appointment was made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,.
During the ceremony, according to the Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Ambassador Nwaobiala conveyed the goodwill and best wishes of President Tinubu to President Ouattara and the people of Côte d’Ivoire.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
President Ouattara welcomed the Nigerian envoy and emphasized the importance of the cordial relationship between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria.
He expressed his readiness to work closely with Ambassador Nwaobiala to deepen bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of regional integration and economic development.
The event highlighted the strong diplomatic ties between both countries and their shared commitment to advancing peace, stability, and prosperity across West Africa.
Speaking later at a reception held in his honour by members of the Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Nwaobiala noted that Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire are united not only by geography but also by a common history, shared aspirations, and a commitment to African unity and development.
He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu and the leadership of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to discharge his duties with humility, dedication, and determination to advance Nigeria’s national interests while strengthening relations between the two nations.
The ambassador also reaffirmed his commitment to promoting mutual understanding, respect, and productive collaboration for the benefit of both countries, while calling on nations around the world to foster partnerships and cooperation rather than division.
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