President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic in a diplomatic visit met with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday to deliberate on strategies for enhancing trade relations between the neighboring nations.
Emphasizing the necessity of collaboration for economic growth in West Africa, President Tinubu underscored the existing hindrances to mutual development resulting from a lack of synergy between Nigeria and Benin.
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Describing the two nations as interconnected entities, he highlighted the need for shared economic principles and priorities.
“We are one. What is affecting us is a lack of synergy. We must have common economic principles and priorities. The economic program you are developing is welcomed by me. We will support all of our private sector interests to facilitate prosperity in both of our important countries,” stated President Tinubu.
President Patrice Talon, seeking support for improved trade relations ahead of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit, expressed the critical nature of the relationship between Benin and Nigeria.
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President Patrice Talon Words:
Focusing on stronger trade ties, he emphasized the importance of the free movement of people and goods between the two countries.
“Benin has started implementing a national development plan which includes enhanced integration between Nigeria and the Benin Republic. Our development plan includes taking into account what investments are required in Benin to enhance our integration with Nigeria in trade terms,” President Talon explained.
Acknowledging historical challenges in bilateral relations, particularly regarding smuggling issues, President Talon proposed the formation of an inter-ministerial technical committee to draft a document for legislatures.
He expressed readiness to sign an executive order appointing members to advance cooperation across sectors.
The leaders collectively advocated for urgent action, aligning with ECOWAS principles and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) goals. They envisioned a future of shared prosperity, committing to coordinate efforts to protect mutual interests and overcome bilateral challenges.
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The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to making history together, signifying a positive step towards fostering stronger economic ties and integration in the West African region.
