As part of efforts to make Africa a better place, Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari and his Kenyan counterpart, President Uhuru Kenyatta have recently pledged to work together in addressing the challenges facing both countries, rooting out terrorism and corruption which they termed “obstacles to development”.
The two leaders spoke during a state banquet hosted by President Uhuru and First Lady Margaret Kenyatta in honour of visiting President Buhari.
President Uhuru said President Buhari’s visit to Kenya – his first since assuming power in Nigeria – has provided an opportunity to maintain development of bilateral relations which have registered significant growth between the two countries. He said Kenya and Nigeria are forging closer ties creating room for increased partnership between the business communities.
Noting that Kenya and Nigeria were grappling with the problems of terrorism, radicalisation of the youth and violent extremism, Uhuru said the two countries will work together to end these scourges.
“I look forward to continuing to work with you my brother in ensuring that Africa’s children enjoy happier, more peaceful and prosperous lives,” President Kenyatta told President Buhari. “Tonight, I simply want to record my deep appreciation of your support in our fight.”
He appreciated President Buhari’s visit to Moi Barracks, saying it was an honour to the Kenyan soldiers and their families.
On his part, President Buhari lauded the deepening relations between Kenya and Nigeria.
“For example, we have Nigerian banks operating in Kenya while Kenya Airways is connecting many Nigerians to West Africa and indeed the world,” Buhari said.
He added that Nigerian farmers are coming to Kenya to learn from successful Kenyan farmers while many upcoming Kenyan oil and gas businessmen are partnering with Nigerian oil companies.
“We have Nigerians drinking Kenyan coffee in their homes and offices while many Kenyans are listening to Nigerian Music and watching Nollywood movies,” President Buhari observed.
The Nigerian leader said these developments point to a real integration on the continent beyond the formal diplomatic levels. He said integration promotes movement of people and goods boosting intra-Africa trade that result in the creation of millions of jobs within Africa for Africans.
“It is on this note that I hope our two countries will continue building on the strong foundation already laid so far by further enhancing trade and economic ties.”
He cited that Kenya’s founding father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta was among the first generation of African freedom fighters who paved the way for the independent Africa of today.
“Julius Nyerere of Tanzania, Abdul Nasser of Egypt, Nnamdi Azikiwe of Nigeria and Kwame Nkuruma of Ghana – that generation of heroes brought our continent back to us,” Buhari said. “Now it is our task to make them proud by elevating Africa to a level beyond their dreams.”
They agreed that Kenya and Nigeria should ensure that the Memoranda of Understanding and bilateral agreements signed are implemented in earnest.
Deputy President William Ruto said Kenyans and Nigerians are known the world over for their passion and aggression, adding the “West has met the East”.
“Your Excellences, it is good that you lead such people. But the drive and the aggression should be used for the right things,” the Deputy President said.
The state banquet was attended by senior Government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited guests.
