By Abdulkareem Haruna
Former UK Prime Minister Sir Tony Blair has promised his support for the incoming administration of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a recent visit to the Defence House in Abuja.
Blair, who founded the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change, said the organisation would be a willing partner with Tinubu’s administration in prioritising its goals and delivery.
“We would like to help in any way with your administration. We only need to know what the leadership priorities are and help in how to actualise them,” Blair told President-elect Tinubu.
In response, Tinubu expressed appreciation to Blair for the visit and for his offer to work with his administration. He spoke of the shared vision between him and the Tony Blair Institute in their priority areas, but underlined the importance of tackling investment challenges and the need for social investment to fight poverty.
“Yes, we are challenged. But where is our courage? We can eliminate ignorance, diseases, and poverty in Africa. We must work hard to ensure democracy works for our people,” Tinubu said.
“We have to invest more, put technology in place and keep terrorists at bay because without effective security, there is no guarantee investors will come,” he added.
The president-elect promised to provide a conducive environment that would encourage investors and open up opportunities for the people.
Tinubu was accompanied to the meeting by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila; Vice President-elect, Senator Kashim Shettima; and other top government officials.
Other top personalities at the meeting were member of Tinubu Transition Team, Mr. Wale Edun; former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Chairman, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Adetokunbo Abiru and Executive Secretary, National Sugar Development Council, Mr. Zacch Adedeji.
Blair’s visit to Nigeria reflects the international community’s interest in the country’s political and economic development. His pledge of support to the incoming administration is a positive step towards achieving sustainable development in Nigeria.
Bay States News 