The European Union has expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a strategic framework capable of addressing poverty, insecurity, and economic challenges in Nigeria. EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, made this known during an engagement with diplomats in Abuja.
Diplomatic Engagement Highlights
The interactive session, chaired by Imo State Governor and Progressive Governors' Forum Chairman Hope Uzodimma, aimed to strengthen collaboration between Nigerian state governments and international partners on governance, investment, and democratic reforms.
Mignot noted that the Renewed Hope Agenda aligns with the aspirations of Nigeria's international partners and reflects a people-oriented governance approach. He stressed the need for policies to translate into tangible improvements in living conditions, particularly in job creation, social welfare, and economic stability.
Subnational Governance Role
The envoy emphasized that governors and state-level actors are closer to the people, making them better positioned to tackle poverty and insecurity efficiently. He commended Uzodimma for his exhaustive analysis of the agenda's expected impact on governance and economic reforms.
Mignot also referenced discussions with Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Atiku Bagudu, highlighting the importance of transparency and inclusiveness in Nigeria's upcoming elections.
Support from Other Diplomats
Liberian Ambassador John Ballout praised Nigeria's historic role in promoting peace and stability in West Africa, particularly through ECOWAS interventions. He described Nigeria as the "pace-setter and big brother in Africa."
Philippines Ambassador Mersole J. Mellejor, speaking for ASEAN, called the forum timely and reaffirmed commitment to working with Nigeria towards sustainable development and shared prosperity.
Economic Reforms and Fiscal Gains
Governor Uzodimma explained that the administration's reforms—removal of fuel subsidy and unification of the foreign exchange market—have strengthened Nigeria's fiscal position. Foreign reserves have risen to $49.4 billion, and monthly FAAC disbursements now range between N1.8 trillion and N2.6 trillion.
He described the subsidy removal as a major anti-corruption measure, stating that the previous regime was the "single largest organized corruption pipeline in our public finances."
The diplomatic community assured continued engagement with Nigeria on democratic governance, economic growth, and institutional reforms.
