By  Milcah   Tanimu

President Bola Tinubu, on Thursday, underscored the significance of sustaining democracy and its institutions, affirming that while protests are an essential aspect of democracy, no government will tolerate demonstrations that lead to the destruction of lives and property.

According to a press statement by Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Tinubu made this statement during the presentation of the Letter of Credence by the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Richard Mills Jr., at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

“Our relationship with America is rich. We believe in democracy and freedom. Some of your predecessors worked hard during our transition to democracy, and we remember the likes of Ambassador Howard Jeter.

“We look forward to Nigeria and the United States continuously working to expand cooperation on shared goals and democratic values.

“During the military era, we made our voices heard against dictatorship, and I was part of the group that engaged in peaceful protests without resorting to the destruction of property.

“We have worked hard to ensure 25 years of unbroken democracy and I will continue to maintain this democracy.

“In as much as we believe that demonstrations are part of democracy, we will never encourage any protests that lead to the destruction of lives and property,” President Tinubu asserted.

Welcoming the U.S. State Department’s recognition of Nigeria’s strategic role on the continent as Africa’s largest democracy, President Tinubu called on the U.S. Government to pay more attention to Africa.

“We believe in freedom, and we are providing the leadership to make Nigeria’s economy grow,” the President said.

Ambassador Mills affirmed U.S. support for Nigeria’s democracy and pledged support for bigger roles for Nigeria in the international arena.

“Nigeria is crucial to the United States because we share democratic values, and we are ready to give you all the support. I am here to make sure that the relationship blossoms both on democracy and the economic side,” Ambassador Mills said.

President Tinubu also engaged with other diplomats, including the High Commissioner of Malaysia and the High Commissioner of Botswana, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and trade. He highlighted the importance of cooperation in various sectors, including education, financial services, and livestock development.

In discussions with the Malaysian High Commissioner, Tinubu expressed a desire to improve trade balance and strengthen ties ahead of the 50th anniversary of bilateral relations in 2025. The High Commissioner noted the cooperation in education and the potential for further collaboration in financial services.

During his audience with the Botswana High Commissioner, President Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to develop robust cultural and economic cooperation with Botswana. He acknowledged Botswana’s progress in livestock development and mentioned a committee’s ongoing work to establish a ministry of livestock development in Nigeria.

“Africa’s solution is in our hands. Nobody will help us if we do not help ourselves,” the President said.

The Botswana High Commissioner, Kereng, conveyed Botswana’s commitment to being a leader in livestock vaccine production and its willingness to partner with Nigeria in this area. She also praised Nigerian arts, entertainment, and culture, noting that Botswana’s youth could learn much from Nigeria’s vibrant creative economy.

“My coming to Nigeria fulfils my President’s vision of improved relations with Nigeria, and I will work very hard to achieve these objectives,” she said.