PICTORIAL: Pedro Assumes Office As Nigeria’s New High Commissioner In Australia

Former deputy governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro, has officially assumed office as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia after presenting his Letters of Credence to Australia’s Governor-General.

Pedro disclosed this in a statement posted on his verified Facebook page on Tuesday, announcing that he formally submitted his credentials to Australia’s Governor-General, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

According to him, the ceremony marked the official commencement of his diplomatic duties in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands and the Oceanic States.

“Today’s ceremony marks the official commencement of my duties as Nigeria’s Ambassador to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands and the Oceanic States. This is not just a ceremonial milestone – it is a call to action,” Pedro stated.

The new envoy said Nigeria and Australia share a strong and evolving relationship founded on mutual respect, Commonwealth values and expanding economic opportunities.

He highlighted key sectors with potential for greater collaboration, including critical minerals, agriculture, education and financial technology.

“Australia and Nigeria share a uniquely rich and evolving partnership built on mutual respect, shared Commonwealth values and growing economic complementarities. From critical minerals and agricultural innovation to education and fintech, the opportunities for deeper collaboration are immense,” he said.

Pedro added that Nigeria remained open to foreign investment and expressed readiness to work with the Australian government and regional partners to strengthen trade, investment, educational cooperation and cultural exchanges.

Addressing Nigerians living in Australia and across the Pacific region, the High Commissioner pledged to prioritise diaspora engagement and promote Nigeria’s interests abroad.

“Not only do I carry President Bola Tinubu’s mandate, I also carry your identity, your aspirations, your hard work and your pride,” he said.

Pedro noted that his mission would be guided by the Federal Government’s foreign policy priorities centred on demography, development, diaspora and democracy, while also promoting the National Values Charter in diplomatic engagements.

“You are the face of Nigeria in this region, so let us work together as partners in nation-building. I am here for you, and our mission is open for engagement,” he added.

He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s global standing, declaring: “The world is watching Nigeria. Now, we deliver.”

LEADERSHIP reports that President Bola Tinubu had in February assigned Pedro and 64 other ambassadors-designate to various countries and international missions, including the United Nations, following their confirmation by the Senate.