The European Union has rated Nigeria as the leader in terms of innovative policies and development on the African continent.
The outgoing Europe Union Ambassador to Nigeria and the ECOWAS, Samuela Isopi, stated this at her farewell programme organised by the EU in Abuja, Nigeria.
Ambassador Isopi, said the EU is proud to have invested in the transformative power of Nigerian self-determination.
She said; “On innovation, Nigeria is a leader of the continent and I am very proud that the European Union and its member states have decided to invest significantly in the transformative power of Nigerian self-determination.
“On access to human development, Nigeria is now fully united to solve problems and I am pleased with the critical support that the European Union has provided.”
“The European Union, as I have also mentioned in the past, remains by far Nigeria’s loudest voice and counts for about one third of Nigeria’s foreign trade. The European Union is also Nigeria’s most active trade partners“. Isopi said
She also stressed that democratic governance remains the best way of uplifting Nigeria.
“I am particularly proud and grateful for our partnership and support to Nigeria’s democracy. This is something which is very dear to my heart. Democratic governance in Nigeria remains the key inspiration of Nigeria, and remains the best way to uplift a stronger and better Nigeria. A Nigeria that cares for its people and lives up to its aspirations. In everything we have done together, our support has always been genuine and true,” She stressed.
The EU outgoing Ambassador expressed her deep appreciation for the partnership with Nigeria, highlighting the collaboration with Nigerian innovators, women, and civil society to build a brighter future.
Isopi emphasised the strengthened relationship between Nigeria and the EU saying; “Now, as I prepare to leave, I am even more convinced that the European Union and Nigeria are much closer than ever. We are neighbors, both global players, standing for the same values. There is so much we can offer each other and gain from our cooperation. This mutual understanding has been at the very heart of my work in Nigeria. I am personally delighted to have found in the Nigerian government—both the previous and the new—a formidable counterpart, open to engaging in all areas of our partnership, from peace and security to governance, human development, and digital aid. I am proud of what we have achieved together in so many areas vital to Nigeria’s progress: agriculture, sustainability, value chains, support, and security.”
“Nigeria has everything it wants. I took it out of all its challenges. A diversified society, a rich culture, a robust civil society, a vibrant manufacturing sector, a dynamic media landscape. Talent in brave women, entrepreneurial spirit, and a determination to do better. And doing better will continue to require vision, hard work,” she explained.
Isopi further reiterated continued partnership in journey towards success.
She said; “In difficult times, partnership is a matter of now rather than never. And I am sure that the European Union, under the leadership of my successor, will continue to stand by Nigeria and by Nigerians in the journey towards a better future. All Nigeria must be proud of us. But I know, as will my successor, that we should not let our achievements overshadow the challenges ahead of us. I leave this country, and I remain convinced that the best is still to come for Nigeria and the Nigerians.”
Also speaking the Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang said that the partnership between Nigeria and Europe should always be strengthened.
The Governor said; “The partnership between Europe and Nigeria Is something that must continue to be strengthened. Europe needs Nigeria, Nigeria needs Europe, and it’s not surprising that they’re our biggest trading partner with a great deal of credit in our favor. That shows the commitment of Europe towards the development of Nigeria. It is not out of place. It is not unfounded to say that the best of Nigeria is yet to come. I believe so, and we do not have a choice but to unleash the potentials of Nigeria, because the black race is looking up to Nigeria. But not just the black race, but Nigeria and Africa will continue to become a very great partner in the cause of all progress.”
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and the ECOWAS is leaving Nigeria and Africa after serving the continent for 10 years, since 2014.
Mercy Chukwudiebere
