Nigerian Ambassador seeks better relations with Angola
The Nigerian Ambassador to Angola, Professor Monique Ekpong, has promised to foster better bilateral relations with the Republic of Angola.
Ekpong stated this at a recent meeting with the Angolan President, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, after presenting her accreditation at the Presidential Villa in Luanda.
As Nigeria is the largest oil producing country in sub-Saharan Africa, it is closely followed by Angola as the second largest oil producing country in sub-Saharan Africa and an OPEC member with output of approximately 1.37m barrels of oil per day (bpd) and an estimated 17,904.5m cubic feet of natural gas production.
Professor Ekpong stressed ”the importance of cooperation and understanding between both countries.”
She was received with a full guard of honour by President Gonçalves Lourenço for the occasion of presentation of letters of credence.
The diplomat thanked the Angolan President for audience despite his tight schedule and Covid-19 restrictions.
Stronger ties
Professor Ekpong requested stronger ties to foster commerce and cultural exchange between both countries. She established the need to restore direct flights between Nigeria and Angola, instead of flying through Ethiopia.
In a bid to boost trade and tourism, she appealed for ”quicker documentation for Nigerians in Angola, as well as better treatment of Nigerian residents.”
The meeting was adjudged as productive, as President Lourenço granted all requests of Ambassador Ekpong.
He promised to restore direct flights immediately, promising a better relationship between Nigeria and Angola.
NP/Mercy Chukwudiebere
