President Jonathan Commends Out-Going German Ambassador

ABUJA, August 02, (THEWILL) - President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has commended the out-going German Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Joachim Christoph Schmillen, for hard work during his tenure in Nigeria.

President Jonathan gave the commendation during the Ambassador’s farewell visit to State House, Tuesday.

He acknowledged Mr. Schmillen’s contributions, which included, “strengthening Nigeria -German Business Council, ensuring increased power sector cooperation, hosting the first visit of a German Chancellor to Nigeria in 33 years, and witnessing two national elections in 2007 and 2011.”

President Jonathan also recognised the efforts of Mrs. Maria Cecilia Schmillen, wife of the out-going Ambassador, who had established the Abuja Metropolitan Orchestra, describing it as “wonderful.”

He assured Mr. and Mrs. Schmillen of a warm welcome to Nigeria in future, and wished them the best at their next post.

Earlier, the out-going Ambassador told the President that he spent “a very interesting, extraordinary time in Nigeria, under three different Presidents”, adding that he was leaving, after “five wonderful years”, with a feeling of sadness.