President Bola Tinubu says lack of synergy between Nigeria and Benin Republic has been an encumbrance to mutual development.

The Nigerian leader made this known when he received President Patrice Talon of Benin Republic at the Aso Villa in Abuja, on Wednesday.

“We are one. No other nation like ours should be worried. What is affecting us is a lack of synergy. We have not developed the necessary economic synergy that will develop our two nations,” Tinubu said, according to a statement by his spokesman, Ajuri Ngelale.

“We must have common economic principles and priorities. The economic programme you are developing through inter-ministerial collaboration is welcomed by me.”

The Nigerian leader assured his Benin Republic counterpart that “we are together”. Tinubu said the Federal Government will support all private sector interests to facilitate prosperity in both countries.

President Talon, who was at the State House to seek the support of President Tinubu on improving trade relations, ahead of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Summit, described the relationship between his country and Nigeria as crucial.

He said Benin Republic is seeking stronger trade ties with Nigeria, emphasising the free movement of people and goods between both countries.

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