The Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, yesterday called for stronger ties between Nigeria and The Gambia.
He observed that the present challenges confronting developing countries are making it compelling for them to start looking inwards on how to strengthen their economic and commercial relationships.
The Emir spoke during the meeting between members of the Kano Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture and members of the Gambian business community at Banjul, The Gambia.
“We have to do all it takes to develop South-South co-operation, particularly within our West African sub-region,” he said.
A palace statement said: “The Emir noted that the various protocols within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) have given us a common platform which we can utilise for our common good.”
The Emir urged the participants to look beyond the horizon and explore all the areas of comparative advantage so as to create a mutually-beneficial relationship that could boost the economies of Nigeria and The Gambia.
He explained that “this can create opportunities that could engender sustained economic growth to our two countries and overall benefit of our people.”
He urged them to remain resolute and work towards establishing an enviable business relationship because one of the fastest ways of creating relationships is through commerce.
“Our Gambian brothers and sisters that we have brought members of our Chamber of Commerce to your doorsteps so as to take advantage of the opportunities and possibilities waiting to be tapped and harnessed and we are ready to take same from you.”
The Emir thanked the Gambian authorities and all those who worked tirelessly, including High Commissioner Ambassador Muhammad Manu, “for their foresight and support” for the meeting.
The Emir left for The Gambia and Senegal on a week-long working visit at the invitation of the National Council of Elders of The Gambia, it was learnt.
A palace statement reads: “The first leg of the visit in the Gambia will enable him to attend the country’s independence anniversary which comes up on Friday as Special Guest of Honour. He will also hold meetings with the members of The Gambian Business Community.
“The Emir is scheduled to also attend the Jumma’at prayer together with the Gambian President, Adama Barrow and later pay him a courtesy call.
“The visit to The Gambian will end with a grand reception in his honour by The Gambian National Elders’ Council.
“The Emir is accompanied by Ambassador Ahmed Umar, Dan Malikin Kano, Isa Sanusi, President Kano Chamber of Commerce and Alhaji Dalhatu Abubakar.
“They will proceed to Dakar, the Senegalese capital, where the Emir will visit the Senegalese President Mr. Macky Sall.