President Bola Ahmed Tinubu welcomed a delegation from Bank of America to his office at the State House on Tuesday, where he reiterated his government’s commitment to implementing reforms that promote sustainable growth and development in Nigeria.
Leading the delegation was Mr. Bernard Mensah, President of International for Bank of America, accompanied by Mrs. Yvonne Ike Fasinro, Head of Sub-Saharan Africa, and Mr. Chuba Ezenwa, Head of Investment Banking Sub-Saharan Africa.
In a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy, President Tinubu expressed confidence in his administration’s trajectory despite the nation’s challenges, emphasizing Nigeria’s responsibility not to fail the rest of the African continent.
President Tinubu sought the bank’s support and partnership to advance mutual benefits for Nigeria and the financial institution, stating, “We believe we are on the right track so far. We believe we need all the help we can get.”
The President stressed that addressing governance and development challenges requires fiscal and institutional reforms. He highlighted the interconnected nature of actions on climate change, finance, and innovation in the 21st century, underscoring the importance of a solid platform and a commitment to innovation in undertaking reforms and tackling these issues.
“As the largest economy and democracy in Africa, if we cannot do it, nobody will do it for us,” President Tinubu asserted.
Recognizing the collaborative nature of progress, President Tinubu urged the bank and other financing institutions to assist Nigeria. He specifically mentioned the potential for partnership to ensure Nigerian gas competes favorably in the global market, providing an alternative source of revenue.
In response, Mr. Bernard Mensah commended the initial steps taken by the new administration and expressed the bank’s willingness to assist Nigeria in addressing immediate and long-term challenges, not only through financing but also by contributing ideas.
