By Esther Onyegbula

Diplomatic stakeholders have expressed confidence that Nigeria’s newly appointed Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Mrs. Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim, will strengthen bilateral relations and record remarkable achievements that will benefit both countries.

The stakeholders spoke in separate interviews with journalists during a dinner organised by the Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou on Friday to formally welcome the ambassador.
Former Executive Secretary of the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa, Mrs. Zainab Ali Kotoko, described Adeola-Ibrahim’s appointment as the culmination of years of dedication, integrity and an unwavering belief in the power of diplomacy to promote peace and prosperity.

According to her, the presentation of the ambassador’s letters of credence marked the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria-Benin relations.
“She has presented her letters of credence as Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Benin.
“This moment is more than the assumption of an office; it is proof that when excellence meets purpose, nations are elevated.

“Nigeria and Benin are bound by far more than geography. We are bound by history, culture, trade and the remarkable ties of kinship,” Ali Kotoko said.
She noted that the progress of one country strengthens the other, expressing confidence that Adeola-Ibrahim would deepen the long-standing relationship between both neighbours.

“Having known her personally, I’ve seen her resilience, her humility and her rare gift for bringing people together.
“I have no doubt that she will represent, in particular, President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Republic of Nigeria with distinction.
“She will also forge lasting partnerships and serve as a true bridge builder between our two peoples.

“May your tenure be marked by wisdom in counsel, courage in service and achievements that will strengthen the friendship between Nigeria and Benin for generations to come,” she added.
Also speaking, ACP Folashade Tanaruno, representing the Old Students of Mass Communication, 1997 Set, Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State, described the appointment as a reflection of Adeola-Ibrahim’s dedication, excellence and unwavering commitment to the service of Nigeria.

“May your tenure strengthen the long-standing bond of friendship and cooperation between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin.
“I pray that God grants you the wisdom, grace, sound health and outstanding success as you faithfully represent our dear country,” Tanaruno said.

Similarly, Mr. Oladayo Osundina, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, wished the ambassador a successful and impactful diplomatic mission.
“Although you don’t know me and we are meeting for the first time, I always celebrate women of excellence.

“Benin is a very special country to Nigeria, so that means you are also very special to be appointed here as the ambassador.
“I look forward to working with you to achieve greater things during your tenure as ambassador,” Osundina said.

Responding, Mrs. Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim described her appointment as a memorable milestone in her diplomatic career and expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for the confidence reposed in her.
“I consider this appointment both a great honour and a solemn responsibility, and I remain fully committed to advancing Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives while promoting the enduring friendship between our two countries,” she said.
The ambassador also thanked her family for their support throughout her diplomatic career, describing their encouragement and sacrifices as her greatest source of strength.

She further acknowledged the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, fellow ambassadors, colleagues and staff of the Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou for the warm reception accorded her since her arrival.
“Since my arrival, I have been received with warmth, kindness and exceptional cooperation. Your support has greatly eased my transition and reinforced my confidence that together, we shall accomplish great things,” Adeola-Ibrahim said.

She stressed that Nigeria and the Republic of Benin share a unique relationship built on history, geography and common cultural heritage.
“The peace, security and prosperity of our two nations are closely intertwined, making it imperative that we continue to deepen our cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, border management, security, energy, education and people-to-people exchanges.

“I am particularly optimistic that during my tour of duty, these longstanding bonds of friendship and cooperation will be further strengthened.
“I look forward to contributing meaningfully to initiatives that will promote peace, economic growth and shared prosperity for the benefit of our two peoples,” Adeola-Ibrahim said.