Nigeria Affirms Commitment to Strengthen Ties with Benin Republic
In a significant diplomatic gesture, Vice President Kassim Shettima has reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing bilateral relationships with the Republic of Benin. Highlighting the shared history, culture, and trade links between the two nations, Shettima emphasized their mutual interests in regional security.
His remarks came during a ceremony in Cotonou, where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the inauguration of President Romualdo Wadani. This was detailed in a statement from Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications.
Speaking at the Presidential Palace, Shettima underscored that Nigeria’s involvement at the event reflected President Tinubu’s strong intentions to deepen connections with neighboring countries. “Our presence here in Cotonou underscores the administration’s commitment to fostering relations with our neighbors,” Shettima stated.
The Vice President noted the long-standing historical ties between Nigeria and Benin, emphasizing their interconnectedness through border communities. “The border with the Republic of Benin stretches approximately 600 kilometers across six states in Nigeria. Our cultural and historical ties are profound, with intermarriage and overlapping communities,” he remarked.
Shettima also pointed to the shared ethnic heritage, describing the two countries as essentially “one people, bound by a common destiny.” He referenced the Yoruba population present on both sides of the border and the similar local governance and cultural frameworks that unite the nations.
Advocating for continued collaboration, the Vice President stressed the importance of promoting democratic governance, peace, and economic progress within the ECOWAS region. “We must therefore demonstrate solidarity and active support for strengthening democracy in West Africa,” he said.
In terms of economic engagement, Shettima revealed that trade between Nigeria and Benin currently amounts to approximately $2 billion annually, with around 5 million Nigerians residing in the Republic of Benin. He highlighted ongoing collaborations in areas such as border security, trade facilitation, and infrastructure development, all part of broader regional integration efforts within ECOWAS.
He mentioned a memorandum of understanding signed in August to enhance cooperation among border communities, traditional institutions, and local governments. This agreement is aimed at combating cross-border crime while improving socio-economic relations. It is expected to coordinate commercial activities and agricultural initiatives while expanding opportunities for residents in border areas.
Both nations continue to implement the ECOWAS framework, which includes trade liberalization and the Common External Tariff System. Additionally, the Protocol on the Free Movement of Persons allows citizens to travel and stay within member states for up to 90 days without a visa.
Following the inauguration, Shettima returned to Abuja, where he is anticipated to attend a gathering at the International Conference Center for a formal endorsement of President Tinubu as the All Progressives Congress presidential candidate for the 2027 elections.
