Published By Olukayode Idowu
The Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the State of Qatar, Yakubu Abdullahi Ahmed, has joined millions of Nigerians in the diaspora to wish the government and people of Nigeria happy 61st independence anniversary.
According to a statement issued by the Nigerian Embassy in Doha, Ambassador Yakubu Ahmed in his Independence Day message described Nigeria as a unique nation blessed with abundant human and natural resources that has continued to provide leadership at the global stage which gives a sense of pride to the black man. He therefore called on Nigerians to demonstrate love, peace and unity in their resolve to take the country to greater heights.
The Ambassador used the occasion to commend the cordial relations between Nigeria and Qatar. He stated that the lofty objectives, shared friendship and excellent bilateral relations coupled with cooperation at the multilateral level have continued to wax stronger over the years. A good example is high level bilateral engagements between both countries such as the State Visit of President Muhammadu Buhari of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Qatar in 2016 and the State Visit of His Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar to the Federal Republic of Nigeria in 2019. The commitment to regional peace and development by the highly respected leaders, their zero tolerance for corruption and dedication to the implementation of multilateral agreements tailored towards making the world a better place has continued to endear them to their citizens and admirers across the globe.
The Nigerian principal representative applauded the people-oriented and good leadership style of the Amir of Qatar for creating a peaceful environment and providing opportunities for foreign nationals to render professional services in different areas of specialization. There is a teaming population of over 7,000 highly qualified and experienced Nigerian nationals such as medical practitioners, engineers, property development experts and service providers among others that are performing excellently in diverse sectors.
The Ambassador reiterated the fact that, Nigeria is poised to increase cooperation with Qatar especially in the areas of Agriculture, Oil and Gas, Mining, and infrastructural development, and that informs his strategic engagements upon assumption of duty with relevant top government functionaries of host authorities and captains of industries to actualize his mandate. He therefore, calls on Qatari nationals and other potential investors to take advantage of the vast investment opportunities in the giant of Africa. This is because the Nigerian Government has deliberately designed incentives in line with global best practices in ease of doing business that guarantees return on investment. While some of these incentives are in the form of tax holidays, exemptions, and reliefs, there are many more that leverage specific government policies, the performance of the companies as well as relevant international investment treaties. Ambassador Yakubu also used the occasion to salute the Nigerian Community in Qatar that parades an array of seasoned professionals. He stated that the Embassy is very proud of them and their laudable achievements as they continue to add value to the society. He therefore encouraged them to respect and abide by the rules and regulations of the host country and continue to fly the Nigerian flag higher.