By Jane Salihu
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Botswana as the country’s new High Commissioner to the Southern African nation, Mr. John Shama Shaga, formally presented his Letters of Credence to Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko.
The presentation ceremony, held at the State House in Gaborone, officially marked the commencement of Ambassador Shaga’s diplomatic assignment and featured a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
Speaking after presenting his credentials, the Nigerian envoy conveyed the warm greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the Government and people of Botswana, while reaffirming Nigeria’s resolve to deepen the long-standing friendship and strategic partnership between both countries.
Shaga identified trade and investment, agriculture—particularly livestock development—creative industries, financial technology, tourism and the growth of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) as priority areas for expanded collaboration. He also advocated the early implementation of the Bilateral Air Services Agreement (BASA), noting that improved air connectivity would stimulate commerce, tourism and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
In his remarks, President Boko welcomed the Nigerian High Commissioner and reiterated Botswana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties. He described the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a critical platform for accelerating Africa’s economic integration and expressed optimism about expanding cooperation in sectors including tourism and legal services.
The Botswana leader also extended his goodwill to President Tinubu and the people of Nigeria, expressing confidence that relations between both countries would continue to flourish.
High Commissioner Shaga pledged to work closely with the Botswana Government throughout his tenure to broaden areas of cooperation, deepen diplomatic engagement and promote shared economic prosperity for both nations.