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President Bola Tinubu stated on Thursday that his administration will uphold democratic principles, including the right to protest, but will not tolerate demonstrations that result in the destruction of lives and property.
He made this statement while receiving a Letter of Credence from Richard Mills Jr., the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, released a statement titled “President Tinubu Receives U.S. Ambassador, Underscores the Importance of Sustaining Democracy, Its Norms and Institutions,” detailing the exchange.
Tinubu’s remarks came amid increasing calls for nationwide protests against economic hardship, scheduled for August 1, 2024.
Reflecting on his experience during the military era, Tinubu stated, “We made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property.
We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy, and I will continue to maintain this democracy.”
He also described Nigeria-U.S. relations as “rich” and committed to upholding democracy, saying, “Our relationship with America is rich.
“We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.
“We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values,” the President reiterated.
Tinubu welcomed the U.S. State Department’s recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role as Africa’s largest democracy and called for increased U.S. engagement with Africa.
He stated, “Nigeria is ready to play its role as the largest democracy in Africa that is worthy of emulation to other African countries, but we need more U.S. partnership on the continent that is beneficial to both sides.
“We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow.”
Ambassador Mills affirmed U.S. support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged to enhance Nigeria’s role on the international stage, saying, “Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support.
“I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side.”
Mills also announced the establishment of a special office at the U.S. Embassy to collaborate with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to expand cooperation on cybercrimes.
Earlier, President Tinubu received Letters of Credence from the High Commissioner of Malaysia, Aiyub Bin Omar, and the High Commissioner of Botswana, Ms. Phild Nani Kereng.
He discussed improving trade balance with Malaysia and acknowledged the educational cooperation between the two countries.
The Malaysian High Commissioner expressed interest in strengthening relations ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral ties in 2025, highlighting cooperation in education and financial services.
In his meeting with the Botswana High Commissioner, Tinubu reiterated the importance of cultural and economic cooperation.
He noted the development of a livestock ministry in Nigeria and praised Botswana’s leadership in livestock vaccine production.
The Botswana High Commissioner expressed admiration for Nigerian arts and culture, emphasising the potential for collaboration in the youth-driven creative economy.
The protests, organised under the hashtag ‘#EndBadGovernanceinNigeria,’ have gained significant traction on social media, although no group has officially claimed responsibility.
