The presidential candidate of Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has said that a well-governed, peaceful and prosperous Nigeria is in Canada’s strategic interest.
Obi disclosed this on Tuesday following a meeting with Canada’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Pasquale Salvaggio, and members of his team at the invitation of the Canadian High Commission.
According to him, the discussions centred on Nigeria’s forthcoming elections and Canada’s support for efforts to strengthen the country’s democratic processes.
The former presidential candidate said the meeting also covered trade and investment, economic development, education, as well as measures to improve women’s participation and representation in politics.
Obi stressed that a Nigeria capable of meeting the needs of its citizens would unlock the country’s economic potential while creating opportunities for stronger partnerships with Canada and other African countries.
He also highlighted the importance of strengthening democratic institutions, increasing citizen participation and developing a political system that gives every Nigerian, irrespective of gender, background or circumstances, a meaningful role in governance.
Obi said he looked forward to further engagements with Canada’s diplomatic and business communities towards building partnerships that would support a more prosperous, secure and inclusive Nigeria.
He said, “MY VISIT TO THE CANADIAN HIGH COMMISSION
“Yesterday, at the invitation of the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria, I had the privilege of meeting with His Excellency, Pasquale Salvaggio, and his team.
“Our discussions focused on Nigeria’s forthcoming elections and Canada’s continued support for strengthening our democratic processes. We also exchanged views on trade and investment, economic development, education, and the need for affirmative measures to increase women’s participation and representation in politics.
“I reiterated my conviction that a well-governed, peaceful, stable and prosperous Nigeria is firmly in Canada’s strategic interest. A Nigeria that works for its people will not only unlock the enormous potential of our nation but also create greater opportunities for deeper partnership between Nigeria, Canada, and the wider African continent.
“We also discussed the urgent need to strengthen our democratic institutions, deepen citizen participation, and build a political system where every Nigerian, regardless of gender, background or circumstance, has a meaningful opportunity to contribute to governance.
“I look forward to continued engagement with Canada’s diplomatic and business community as we collectively pursue partnerships that can contribute to a more prosperous, secure and inclusive Nigeria. A New Nigeria is POssible. -PO”
