Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire have renewed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, regional integration and economic cooperation as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Côte d’Ivoire, His Excellency Ezenwa Chukwuemeka Nwaobiala, formally presented his Letters of Credence to the Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara.
The presentation ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Abidjan on Thursday, June 18, 2026, marking the official commencement of Ambassador Nwaobiala’s diplomatic assignment in Côte d’Ivoire following his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
Accompanied by his wife, Lady Chidinma Nwaobiala, the Nigerian envoy conveyed the warm greetings and best wishes of President Tinubu to President Ouattara and the people of Côte d’Ivoire.
Ambassador Nwaobiala reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to further strengthening the longstanding friendship and cooperation between both countries, with emphasis on areas of mutual interest.
Receiving the Letters of Credence, President Ouattara welcomed the Nigerian Ambassador and reiterated the importance of the cordial relationship between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria.
The Ivorian leader expressed readiness to work closely with Ambassador Nwaobiala towards deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the areas of regional integration, economic development, peace and stability in West Africa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the ceremony underscored the excellent relations between the two countries and their shared commitment to promoting prosperity across the region.
Speaking at a reception held in his honour with members of the Nigerian community in Côte d’Ivoire, Ambassador Nwaobiala described Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire as nations connected not only by geography but also by history, shared aspirations and a common vision for African unity.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the confidence reposed in him, pledging to carry out his responsibilities with humility, dedication and a strong sense of duty.
The Ambassador assured that he would work towards fostering greater understanding, mutual respect and productive collaboration between both nations for the benefit of their citizens.
He also called on countries across the world to prioritise partnerships and cooperation, stressing the need to build bridges rather than walls in international relations.
