The Federal Government has highlighted that its current economic policies were aimed at cushioning the hardship faced by citizens.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume emphasized this to the visiting Canadian High Commissioner, Dr. Jamie Christoff during a meeting with the envoy in Abuja.

Akume assured that the current tough phase will only be temporary while outlining steps being taken by Nigeria such as streamlining the multiple foreign exchange rate, reforming the tax regime, and phasing out fuel subsidies.

Akume in a statement by the director information in his office Segun Imohiosen, told Christoff that while the economic situation was inherited, the government’s policies are fundamentally designed to alleviate the impact on Nigerians and bring them succor.

He expressed confidence that the measures would lead to long-term improvement, emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to its bilateral ties with Canada for their mutual economic benefit.

The SGF also expressed Nigeria’s commitment to consolidate on the existing relationship with the country on the heels of their bilateral ties for mutual economic benefits in agricultural development.

Akume further stated that Nigeria and Canada share a lot in common with regards to the system of government of the two countries, noting that both countries practice Federal System of Government.

Explaining to the envoy that Nigeria practices a three-tier government with the local government which is the third tier of government designed to cater for the development of the grassroots.

The SGF who highlighted that no federal system is the same as it differs from country to country also reaffirmed that the system is the best form of government if well structured.

The Canadian High Commissioner, while responding, in his words said, ‘I am a great believer in Nigeria and Nigeria is a great country. We share a lot in common as we also practice a Federal System of Government’.

He noted however that the system can be designed to suit different levels but needs some form of coordination.

In furtherance of his response, he said Canada is a country with two official languages and that they have people from all over the planet that make up the country.

The High Commissioner, in his remarks on the economic development of the two countries emphasised that Nigeria and Canada are large producers of grains and for this reason a lot could be done together to achieve a viable economic development that is mutually beneficial.

He pledged a stronger agricultural cooperation between the countries that will bring further prosperity.

He promised to let his country know that Nigeria is presently undergoing a transition process with regards to the economic situation of the country.

While re-emphasising his pledge to support Nigeria, he assured the SGF that he should always count on the necessary support of the Canadian Government.

Sen. Akume while thanking the envoy, stressed the commitment of the Federal Government of Nigeria to the bilateral agreement between the countries to bolster the economic development with a view to reassuring the citizenry.

The SGF also recalled that in 2022, Nigeria was Canada’s largest bilateral trade partner in Africa, with Canadian imports from Nigeria totalling about $1.7billion mainly on mineral fuels, oils and cocoa.