The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, has called for stronger socio-economic and political ties between Nigeria and Sao Tome & Principe in the spirit of African brotherhood.
Mr Gbajabiamila, made the remark when he received the President of the Parliament of Sao Tome and Principe, Mr Delfim Santiago Das Neves, who paid him a courtesy call at the National Assembly.
The speaker, said both countries could partner in the areas of agriculture, tourism and commerce.
Mr Gbajabiamila, who noted that he had looked forward to such a meeting, added that the world had become a “big village” where countries must work together closely to harness their areas of common interests.
He cited an example with the 9th Assembly, which he said had deliberately embarked on parliamentary diplomacy since 2019 to help build friendships between Nigeria and other countries, especially on the African continent.
The speaker explained that such parliamentary friendship groups helped to resolve issues through legislative interventions and dialogues.
“I am excited because this meeting will strengthen and deepen economic and socio-political ties between Nigeria and your country…
“Sao Tome and Principe is rich in agriculture and tourism. This is an area Nigeria can tap into.
Speaking earlier, the President of the Parliament of Sao Tome and Principe, Mr Santiago Das Neves, said Nigeria and his country were one, as he recalled that the first settlers in Sao Tome and Principe actually came from Nigeria.
He called for improved relations between the two countries, which Das Neves admitted had not grown much in the last 10 years.
Das Neves called for a partnership to promote free trade zones and the establishment of a joint maritime security force to protect people and goods on the Gulf of Guinea.
COV/IBRAHIM SHEHU
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