President Bola Tinubu has said that Nigeria and Benin Republic will collaborate to explore their cultures, history and demographics for the benefit of the citizens.
This is contained in a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications and Strategy, Mr. Dele Alake, on Tuesday.
The President was speaking as a special guest at the 63rd Independence anniversary of Republic of Benin.
News Agency of Nigeria reports that Tinubu was invited by President Patrice Talon since the proximity of the two countries and similarity in economy, and outlook on development, made it compulsory to collectively pursue the same goal of growth.
“Nigeria and Benin Republic are conjoined twins. We are joined from one stomach. In every aspect, we are one and we share much in common,” he said, during an interaction with journalists.
The President said the vision of political and economic stability of Nigeria and Benin could only be realised by working together, saying that the partnership would be strengthened and upscaled at various levels.
Tinubu thanked Talon for the honour, and for also inviting six Nigerian governors, who graced the occasion.
The six state governors are Dapo Abiodun (Ogun); Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos,); Seyi Makinde (Oyo); AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq (Kwara ); Nasir Idris (Kebbi) and Mohammed Bago (Niger).
In his remarks, Talon said the historic invitation of having another leader at the country’s independence celebration was to show high respect for Tinubu, following his track record of providing leadership in Nigeria, and the West Coast.
“I want to really appreciate President Tinubu for honouring our invitation to participate in our 63rd anniversary.
“It is not a normal practice to invite a foreign leader for independence celebration, but this signals the constructive and positive relationship we have enjoyed, and more benefits to come,’’ Tallon added.
Apart from the shared border, Talon noted that Nigeria and Benin had stayed together over many years as a family, and the good relationship should be encouraged among citizens.
Tinubu has returned to Nigeria after the Independence anniversary event.
He is expected to participate at the high level meeting of the ruling All Progressives Congress holding between August 2 and August 3.
