Nigerian government has reinforced its diplomatic and economic ties with the Republic of Benin. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, disclosed this following a pivotal meeting attended by Nigeria’s delegation, led by Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, in Benin Republic.
During the gathering, Benin’s President, His Excellency Patrice Talon, encouraged the ministers to build on existing momentum in bilateral relations, notably established by himself and Nigerian President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR.
Key agenda items included enhancing bilateral trade, harmonizing trade measures, and bolstering customs union. To facilitate these, Benin proposed the establishment of a permanent joint technical committee for efficient implementation.
Benin’s Minister of Finance and the Economy, Mr. Romuald Wadagni, emphasized the importance of aligning with both presidents’ commitment to enhancing trade ties. He proposed the establishment of a technical committee as a central hub for addressing joint issues.
In response, Mr. Edun expressed gratitude for Benin’s hospitality and underscored the mutual political will to strengthen ties. He proposed that the finance ministers of both nations lead the permanent committee, emphasizing the need for efficient implementation of shared goals.
The Nigerian delegation included Ambassador Saidu N. Tiggi and the Comptroller of Customs, Seme command, while Benin’s delegation comprised its Minister of Foreign Affairs, Minister of Trade and Commerce, Minister of Justice and Legislation, and the Director General of Customs.
“This meeting underscores Nigeria’s commitment to fostering cultural, trade, and economic relations with Benin, particularly in customs border patrols, financial integration, and regulatory harmonisation along shared borders,” Edun said, according to a statement that was issued by the head of press and public relations in the finance ministry, Helen Oby Chukwu.
