President Jonathan calls for more Intra-African Trade

President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has called for more trade and investment among African countries, to strengthen relationships and for the promotion of the welfare of citizens. President Jonathan was speaking to the outgoing High Commissioner of

Botswana to Nigeria, Mr. Clifford S. Maribe, who paid a farewell visit to State House, Tuesday.

  He said African businessmen must take advantage of the many investment opportunities available in the continent, thereby improving economic and political relations.

He welcomed the report that the business forum held in Gaborone, Botswana during his visit last month had started yielding positive results, as exploratory business visits between Nigerian and Botswanan businessmen have commenced.

The outgoing High Commissioner of Botswana to Nigeria, Mr. Clifford S. Maribe, told President Jonathan that the business forum held in Gaborone, Botswana, during the Nigerian leader's visit last month generated interest among participants.

  He said his tenure in Nigeria had led to stronger relations between the two countries, including high-level visits by the leaders of both countries, and expressed appreciation for the cooperation he enjoyed during his stay.

During a similar audience, President Jonathan told the outgoing Kenyan High Commissioner, Mr. Francis K. A. Sigel, that the warm political relations between the two countries should be strengthened through more high-level visits.

He congratulated Mr. Sigel for completing the construction of Kenya's Chancery and staff housing, describing this as 'a mark of your confidence in us and our relationship'.

The President said there was the need to improve economic relations between Nigeria and Kenya.

In his remarks, Mr. Sigel said he enjoyed his stay in Nigeria.

  Reuben Abati
Special Adviser to the President
Media
 
October 30, 2012