Don’t meddle into Nigeria’s affairs, Buhari warns envoys
President Muhammadu Buhari has asked foreign envoys to avoid meddling in Nigeria’s domestic affairs.
He said this when he was presented Letters of Credence from the ambassadors of Switzerland, Sweden, Republic of Ireland, the Kingdom of Thailand, the Republic of Senegal and the Republic of South Sudan, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Femi Adesina, Buhari’s special adviser on media and publicity, quoted the President as saying, “I urge you to be guided by diplomatic practice to ensure that your activities remain within the limits of your profession as you monitor the build-up to the elections and the conduct of the general elections itself.
“I wish you all success in your respective tours of duty and at the same time encourage you to take time to enjoy the unique nature and culture at your disposal as you travel across our country.”
The President, according to Adesina, added Nigeria and the Economic Community of West African Countries (ECOWAS) are working to stem insecurity and coups in the region. He sought the cooperation and collaboration from other countries to overcome challenges in West Africa.
Adesina equally said that President Buhari urged friendly countries to “support efforts to address the problem of insecurity, fight against corruption, diversification of the economy, and our efforts in promoting good governance.”
Responding on behalf of the others, the Swiss envoy, assured they would exercise “their functions as ambassadors extraordinary and plenipotentiary with dedication, to the best of their knowledge and belief, and for the mutual benefit of our countries.”
“We are keenly aware of the importance of Nigeria to the wellbeing of the entire African continent, its role in international politics and its weight in the world economy.
“Each and every one of us is proud to represent his or her country and its interests in this great Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.
