It is no fewer than 21 days to the inauguration of a new administration in Nigeria, the President of Kenya, Dr. William Ruto has sent special envoy to the Nigerian President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The special envoy delivered letter from President Ruto to Tinubu over the weekend stating interest in working with the incoming Nigerian President.
Kenyan president’s special envoy, was led by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service of Kenya, Mr. Felix K. Koskei.
Tinubu won the February 25, 2023 presidential election in what has been described as a controversial electoral process, by many.
He will replace the incumbent President Muhammadu Buhari whose tenure will end and hand-over on May 29, 2023.
In the letter, President Ruto congratulated discussed how Kenya and Nigeria can build mutual interest and share aspirations in different sectors.
DiplomaticWatch learnt that the letter was personally signed by President Ruto and partly made public by the Tinubu’s media team.
Part of the letter reads: “On behalf of the Government and People of the Republic of Kenya, and on my own behalf, I convey greetings and congratulations to you on your victory, and to the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for their fortitude and maturity in ensuring the successful conduct of the 2023 general elections.”
The Kenyan president also commends the close relationship between the two countries, adding that there is a need to champion the course of the African continent.
President Ruto also promised to work closely with President-elect when inaugurated into office, to strengthen historical bonds between the two countries.
“I wish to applaud the close friendship which exists between our two countries. Kenya and Nigeria share values and aspirations in various sectors including political, socio-economic, cultural, diplomatic exchange and indeed hold commonality of views on many continental and international issues.”
“I look forward to working with you to champion the cause of our continent, and to strengthen further the historical bonds and friendship that happily exist between our two countries and the people,” part of the letter reads.
While welcoming and responding to the letter, Nigerian President-elect, Tinubu affirmed his readiness to work with the Kenyan government.
Tinubu told the special envoy that he will maintain and strengthen the relationship that exist between the two countries. He also promised to visit Kenya at a later time to explore mutual areas of opportunities.
He said, “I intend to maintain that long, cordial relationship between our two countries and continue to pursue the aspiration of our forefathers towards building a stronger and more economically stable Africa.”
In the areas of economic opportunities, and exchange of ideas, Tinubu pledged to work with President Ruto and other African leaders to to ensure growth and security in the continent.
“If we exchange ideas and inter-relate, it will help our continent. Economic opportunities would be explored for Africa’s growth and security,” Tinubu said.
