African nations have to work together especially in developing their economies for the benefit of their people ahead of other forms of international cooperation.
Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, expressed this view today while receiving the visiting Vice President of Liberia, Mr. Joseph Nyumah Boakai in his office at the Presidential Villa.
According to him, "we have to help ourselves first before others come, we should look for ways we can benefit each other."
Prof. Osinbajo observed that there are Nigerian business people that can invest in Liberia, suggesting the creation of a bilateral economic council that can bring business interests from both countries together.
"We must engender stronger relationships between our countries, that is what Africans need," the Nigerian Vice President stated, adding that Nigeria and Liberia need to work together "to develop our economies."
While noting the important task for African governments to create enabling environments for agricultural and industrial
development, Prof. Osinbajo noted that "our people depend on what government is able to do for them."
Strenghtening the relationship between both countries makes sense, Osinbajo emphasised, adding that this is so because of the interactions both share.
In his own remarks, Vice President Boakai of Liberia commended Nigeria saying "Nigeria remains a very important big brother to Liberia. You have made a lot of sacrifices to our country, including through ECOMOG and the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL."
Acknowldging that Nigeria does care for Liberia, Vice President Boakai added that Nigerian businesses are helping the West Africa country in sectors like aviation, banking, insurance and investments.
Besides, he also said there are teachers and doctors from Nigeria who are currently helping to set up schools and health infrastructure in Liberia. According to him, "we are grateful to our brothers and sisters here. We want this relationship to go on, this is the way Africans should go."
The Liberian Vice President is in the country to participate in a public lecture. Vice President Osinbajo expressed pleasure in welcoming him to the country and wished him a fruitful time while here.
Laolu Akande
Senior Special Assistant-Media & Publicity
In the Office of the Vice President
August 22, 2016
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