In anticipation of his upcoming swearing-in ceremony on May 29, President-Elect Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed a distinguished guest to the Defence House in Abuja.
Tony Blair, the former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and founder of the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, paid a visit to Tinubu to express his willingness to collaborate with the incoming Nigerian government.
During their meeting, Blair affirmed his institute’s readiness to partner with Tinubu’s administration in order to prioritize and achieve its goals.
A statement released by Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, Tinubu’s media aide, highlighted Blair’s commitment to assisting Nigeria’s new government.
Having worked extensively with governments worldwide following his tenure as UK Prime Minister, Blair emphasized the Blair Institute’s ongoing project in Nigeria.
He believed it was his responsibility to meet with the incoming president to gain a better understanding of the administration’s priorities.
“We are eager to support your administration in any way possible. We simply need to be informed about your leadership priorities so we can assist in their realization,” Blair expressed.
Blair praised Tinubu’s campaign focus on crucial areas such as security, economy, agriculture, and power, noting their interdependence as vital for societal development.
Recognizing the growing interest of investors in Nigeria, Blair expressed optimism that the Tinubu administration could garner the necessary support to propel economic growth.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by leaders worldwide amid global turbulence, Blair empathized with Tinubu, stating, “Being in government today anywhere in the world is tough. There are global events that impact you, yet you have limited control over them.”
In response, Tinubu expressed his gratitude for Blair’s visit and his eagerness to collaborate with the incoming administration.
Tinubu highlighted the shared vision between himself and the Tony Blair Institute, particularly in addressing priority areas. However, he underscored the urgency of tackling investment challenges and the need for social investment to combat poverty effectively.
“To attract investors and create opportunities for Nigerians, we must invest more, leverage technology, and ensure robust security measures. Without adequate security, there is no guarantee that investors will come,” Tinubu emphasized.
Promising to create a conducive environment that encourages investment and fosters opportunities, Tinubu expressed his commitment to the socio-economic development of Nigeria.
The meeting between Blair and Tinubu showcased a convergence of ideas and a mutual desire to drive Nigeria’s progress. As the President-Elect prepares for his inauguration, the partnership between his administration and the Tony Blair Institute holds promise for the future of Nigeria’s development and prosperity.
See some photos from the meeting below:
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