Nigeria’s administration, under President Tinubu, has declared its intention to sustain diplomatic relations with France, despite calls from some citizens to sever ties following the actions of neighboring countries. Foreign Minister Tuggah stated such calls are misguided and not aligned with Nigeria’s national interests, emphasizing the importance of a stable constitutional framework that protects citizens’ rights.
In a recent interview, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggah, reaffirmed that the country will maintain its diplomatic relations with France, despite the military regimes in neighbouring Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali severing ties. Responding to calls from certain Nigerian citizens to follow the lead of these nations, Tuggah characterized such sentiments as narrow-minded and detrimental to Nigeria’s national interests. He emphasized that Nigeria’s relationship with France is longstanding and should not be dictated by the political circumstances of other countries.
The current diplomatic landscape in West Africa has been affected by military coups, particularly in Niger, Burkina Faso, and Mali, which have sought to extricate themselves from international partnerships, including those with France. This has led to debates within Nigeria regarding its foreign policy direction and the appropriateness of its longstanding partnership with France, especially in light of regional instability. The discussions reflect broader concerns about national sovereignty, governance, and the importance of constitutional freedoms.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s government stands firm on the necessity of maintaining ties with France, as articulated by Foreign Minister Tuggah. He asserts that Nigeria’s strategic interests and constitutional rights allow for engagement with international partners, irrespective of the political choices made by its neighbors. This position underscores the importance of viewing international relations through a lens of national interest rather than reactive sentiment.
Original Source: saharareporters.com
