President Goodluck Jonathan has called for more trade and investment among African countries to strengthen relationships and promote the welfare of citizens. Jonathan spoke when the out-going High Commissioner of Botswana to Nigeria, Mr Clifford Maribe, paid a farewell visit to him at the State House, Abuja.

The President urged African businessmen to take advantage of the many investment opportunities available in the continent to improve economic and political relations. Jonathan welcomed the report that the business forum held in Gaborone during his visit in September had started yielding positive results. Earlier, Maribe, told the president that the business forum held in Gaborone generated interest among participants.

The commissioner said his tenure in Nigeria had led to stronger relations between the two countries, including high-level visits by the leaders of both countries. He expressed appreciation for the cooperation he enjoyed during his stay in Nigeria. Similarly, the president told the out-going Kenyan High Commissioner, Mr. Francis Sigel, that the warm political relations between Nigeria and Kenya should be strengthened through more high-level visits.

He congratulated Sigel for completing the construction of Kenya’s Chancery and staff housing, while describing it as “a mark of your confidence in us and our relationship”. The President said there is need to improve economic relations between Nigeria and Kenya.