Some Nigerian Governors have praised the cordial Ties that exist between the country and its neighbour, Benin Republic.
The Governor’s made their views known in an interview with Voice of Nigeria in Cotonou, Benin Republic’s capital, during the country’s 63rd independence anniversary.
First to speak was Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun who said relations between the two neighbouring countries spanning many years would be further cemented under President Tinubu’s administration.
“It is important that every now and then we come out and participate in similar events like this across the continent because one thing that stands out very clearly is the very strong bond that exists between us and the people of Benin. Our patrimony, our culture and heritage and the sense of unity that has existed between us for many years and still exists.
“I think if there is anything that I am taking home from here is the renewed sense of collaboration that this visit exemplifies by President Talon, reaching out to his regional brother President Tinubu to be here at the National Day celebration so as to discuss and strengthen a renewed partnership that will allow for economic development and transformation across the two Republics.
“Others are a renewed sense of cooperation in joint border patrol, security and what we can learn from each other. The occasion; especially the parade was well organized. I have to take that back,” he said.
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu also said the two countries must work hard to ensure that their citizens enjoy the impact of the strong ties between them.
“It was a very impressive event with beautiful parade ceremony and we feel very honoured that they invited our President and all the Nigerian States neighbouring Benin Republic.
“I think it is the beginning of a lot more mutually beneficial country to country relationship and it’s very commendable. It is something that we should all strive to move forward and let our people in both countries feel the impact of the political collaboration that we are beginning to see,” the Lagos State Governor stated.
Olusola Akintonde
