Tinubu Applauds Finland for Stepping In on Simon Ekpa’s Case 

President Tinubu commends the Finnish government for its intervention in the case of Simon Ekpa, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in addressing security concerns.

On Friday in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu expressed his approval of the Finnish government’s intervention with Simon Ekpa’s arrest and detention. He affirmed that the government would not tolerate any actions or statements that might cause divisiveness among citizens.

President Tinubu made his remarks upon receiving the Letters of Credence from Ms. Sanna Selin, the Finnish Ambassador to Nigeria, at the State House, as revealed by his spokesperson Bayo Onanugu in a statement.

He praised the Finnish authorities for their prompt response, which protected the nation’s integrity and averted an action that endangered peaceful coexistence.

Tinubu also accepted the Letters of Credence from Mr. Gautier Mignot, Ambassador of the European Union, and Hocine Mezoued, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria.

“I want to express my gratitude for your commitment to upholding human rights in our country through the trial of Simon Ekpa. Nigeria is united and indivisible. We have faced challenging periods, and we are determined not to encourage terrorism,” President Tinubu said to the Finnish ambassador.

I was born into activism that seeks unity, not division. To promote progress, we require cohesion and cooperation. Our guiding principles are stability and harmony to advance the nation.

“The President stated, ‘I have been informed by the National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu. I understand the importance of the rule of law in protecting our democratic principles, morals, and values. We must uphold it with respect.’”

The President highlighted that the Ambassador’s focus areas, which include ICT, agriculture, and education, will have a direct influence on the country’s development.

“Nigeria is implementing essential reforms to foster growth and prosperity. I also appreciate the humanitarian assistance provided in the North-East. I am confident that we can collaborate effectively,” he added.

The Ambassador of Finland reportedly praised the President for his bravery in launching reforms that are expected to bolster the economy and secure future prosperity.

The Ambassador noted, “Simon Ekpa has been obstructing bilateral relations. However, cooperation between our two countries is currently thriving, with the National Security Adviser supplying all necessary evidence.”

I commend you for all the ongoing reforms in the country. They are challenging, but despite being difficult, they are crucial for Nigeria’s progress. These changes are vital for the country’s future development.

“Finland has also participated in peace mediation efforts, and we see potential for collaboration with Nigeria in the energy sector. Together, we can turn this vision into a reality,” she stated.

During a meeting with the European Union Ambassador, President Tinubu highlighted that the EU is one of Nigeria’s top trading partners. He encouraged efforts to enhance transaction volumes and strengthen bilateral ties.

He stated that Nigeria requires assistance in digitizing and automating its operations and processes to deliver services effectively.

The President stated that Nigeria’s dynamic and young population makes its economy conducive to supporting investments.

Mignot informed President Tinubu that Nigeria possesses “many untapped potentials” and emphasized that further progress could be achieved through development cooperation and leveraging technology.

“We have a strong partnership grounded in our common values,” he stated.

President Tinubu called for cooperation between Nigeria and Algeria to advance the trans-Saharan African Gas Pipeline project.

The President emphasized the importance of unity, stating: “We must uplift each other in Africa to become stronger together. While we may face neglect or mistreatment, our accountability is only towards ourselves. Our collective effort should focus on raising up Africa.”

According to the Algerian Ambassador, the trans-Sahara African Gas Pipeline initiative and other suggested regional development projects are expected to have a substantial impact on the continent.

“On behalf of the government and people of Algeria, I would like to personally extend our president’s greetings and express my pleasure in our shared political, economic, social values,” he added.

Mezoued stated that Algeria would persist in assisting Nigeria in its negotiations with multilateral institutions to enhance living conditions across the continent.