Nigeria’s High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Botswana, Ambassador John Shama Shaga, has formally presented his letters of credence to Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, marking the official commencement of his diplomatic mission in the Southern African nation.
The credential presentation ceremony, held at the State House in Gaborone, featured a ceremonial Guard of Honour, underscoring the significance of the occasion.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Shaga conveyed the warm greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening the long-standing friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between both countries.
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The envoy identified key areas for enhanced collaboration, including trade and investment, agriculture, particularly the livestock sector, creative industries, financial technology, tourism, and the development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
He also advocated the early implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), noting that improved air connectivity would boost commercial exchanges and deepen people-to-people relations between Nigeria and Botswana.
“Nigeria remains committed to expanding cooperation across critical sectors that will foster economic growth and strengthen the bonds between our two peoples,” Ambassador Shaga said.
In his remarks, President Boko congratulated the Nigerian High Commissioner on his appointment and conveyed warm fraternal greetings to President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria.
The Botswana leader described the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a key driver of Africa’s economic integration and expressed support for the proposed areas of cooperation. He also highlighted significant opportunities for collaboration in the tourism and legal sectors.
“The AfCFTA presents a unique opportunity to deepen economic integration across the continent, while sectors such as tourism and legal services offer immense potential for stronger bilateral cooperation,” President Boko said.
Ambassador Shaga reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to work closely with the Government of Botswana to deepen bilateral relations and advance shared prosperity throughout his tenure.
The presentation of the Letters of Credence signals a renewed commitment by both countries to expanding diplomatic, economic and people-centred cooperation in line with their shared vision for African development and regional integration.
