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Akinwande Soji-Ojo
President Bola Tinubu has called on the European Union (EU) to assist Nigeria and Africa in strengthening security and economic development to alleviate poverty on the continent.
A statement by the Director of Information at the State House, Abidun Oladunjoye, said the president solicited for the support during a telephone conversation with the President of the European Council, Mr. Charles Michel, on Wednesday.
The Council is the institution that defines the general political direction and priorities of the European Union.
According to Tinubu, Nigeria and the whole of Africa would require the help and partnership of her friends and development partners like the EU to address the excruciating poverty on the continent.
While requesting the EU to look at specific areas of security challenge like the Lake Chad and coastal areas, the Nigerian leader promised to remain in contact with the Council and other member states.
He said poverty and insecurity were priority areas for his administration and he would do all that is required to address them.
The Council president used the opportunity of the telephone conversation to once again congratulate Tinubu over his election.
While pledging the commitment of the Council towards a stronger cooperation and partnership with Nigeria, based on mutual respect and common interests, Michel pointed out that Nigeria is important to the EU and the international community.
Michel urged Tinubu to continue to work with the EU in all relevant areas.