President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday, urged the European Union (EU) to assist Nigeria, and Africa in strengthening security and economic development to alleviate poverty on the continent.
The president’s spokesman, Abiodun Oladunjoye, said Tinubu made the request during a telephone conversation with the President of the European Council, Charles Michel.
The European Council is the EU institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union.
According to Oladunjoye , the president said Nigeria and the whole of Africa will require the help and partnership of their friends and development partners including the EU, to address the excruciating poverty in the continent.
While requesting the EU to look at specific areas of security challenges such as Lake Chad and coastal areas, Tinubu reportedly promised to remain in touch with the European Union and other member states.
He idenified poverty and insecurity as priority areas for his administration, promising that he will do all that is required to address them.
The Council’s President used the opportunity of the telephone conversation to, once again, congratulate President Tinubu on his victory in the 2023 election.
While pledging the commitment of the Council towards stronger cooperation and partnership with Nigeria based on mutual respect and common interests, he pointed out that Nigeria is important to the EU and the International Community.
Michel urged the Nigerian leader to continue to work with the EU in all relevant areas.