Simon Ekpa Was Hindering Bilateral Relations Between Nigeria And Finland, Finnish Ambassador Tells Tinubu

In a significant diplomatic development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has commended the Finnish government for its swift intervention and decisive actions concerning Simon Ekpa, an agitator accused of inciting unrest in Nigeria. Speaking in Abuja on Friday during the presentation of Letters of Credence by Finland’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Ms. Sanna Selin, President Tinubu underscored the need for international cooperation in safeguarding Nigeria’s unity and stability.

Welcoming Finland’s efforts, the President highlighted that the detention of Simon Ekpa underscored the commitment of both nations to fostering peace and curbing divisive elements. “Nigeria is indivisible. We have endured turbulent times, and we cannot afford to promote terrorism,” Tinubu stated, according to Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

President Tinubu expressed gratitude for Finland’s proactive measures, emphasizing how they safeguarded Nigeria’s integrity. “Your country’s intervention demonstrated respect for human rights and a commitment to global peace. Stability and cohesion are our watchwords to move the nation forward,” Tinubu remarked.

The Finnish ambassador, Ms. Selin, assured Nigeria of Finland’s readiness to bolster bilateral relations in key areas such as Information and Communication Technology (ICT), agriculture, and education. She described these priorities as mutually beneficial and pivotal for Nigeria’s development agenda.

In his remarks, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the rule of law, stressing its role in preserving democratic values. “The rule of law is not just a constitutional requirement; it is the backbone of our moral and democratic credentials. We must respect and uphold it,” he said.

The meeting also saw President Tinubu receive Letters of Credence from the Ambassador of the European Union, Mr. Gautier Mignot, and the Ambassador of the People’s Republic of Algeria, Mr. Hocine Mezoued. Highlighting Nigeria’s readiness to strengthen diplomatic ties, Tinubu reiterated the importance of global partnerships in fostering peace, stability, and development.

This diplomatic milestone reaffirms Nigeria’s position as a nation committed to unity, progress, and constructive international engagement, setting the stage for deeper collaboration with Finland and other global partners.