Liberia has reiterated its profound and eternal gratitude to Nigeria for its unwavering support during the West African nation’s most challenging periods, with Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Ethel Davis, affirming a commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations. This heartfelt declaration was made during a significant meeting with her Nigerian counterpart, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, on Wednesday in Abuja.
An Unforgettable Friendship Forged in Dark Times
Ambassador Davis eloquently conveyed Liberia’s enduring appreciation, stating, “Nigeria is a country that Liberia will never forget. Why? Because this country was there for us through our darkest period in history. So, it is something that we will never forget.” She underscored the depth of this sentiment by asserting that, if awakened from sleep, any Liberian citizen would instinctively name Nigeria as their closest ally.
She extended her sincere appreciation to both the federal government and the people of Nigeria for their consistent and unwavering support over the years. This profound gratitude, she explained, now serves as a strong impetus for Liberia to explore new avenues for collaboration and strengthen the bond between the two nations in the spirit of brotherhood.
Charting a Course for Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation
The meeting between the two ministers, Davis clarified, primarily focused on strategies to deepen the existing bilateral relations. “So, we are here to further deepen the relationship that exists between our two countries,” she added.
Responding to Amb. Davis’s sentiments, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Sola Enikanolaiye, acknowledged the long-standing and historically rich diplomatic ties between the two nations. He highlighted Nigeria’s extensive engagement in Liberia, particularly its crucial role in assisting with the restoration of peace, security, and stability, as a clear reflection of their deep relationship.
Enikanolaiye noted that the relationship has blossomed from a government-to-government interaction to a more robust, person-to-person connection. He affirmed that Amb. Davis’s visit was intended to facilitate extensive consultations on bilateral relations, address any potential issues, and thoroughly explore opportunities for even closer cooperation.
Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to fostering an even stronger friendship and strategic partnership, setting a trajectory for expanded collaboration across various sectors.