Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to bridging the language gap with Benin Republic, aiming to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote trade between the two nations.
A statement issued by Kauthar Gwarzo, the principal information and public relations officer of the Nigerian Technical Aid Corps (NTAC), on Thursday highlighted that Yusuf Yakub, NTAC’s director-general, made this announcement during a visit to the Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research of Benin Republic, Eleonore Ladekan, in Cotonou.
Yakub explained that the purpose of the visit was to address language barriers that hinder effective communication and to enhance trade and bilateral relations between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
The NTAC director-general emphasized that the NTAC initiative plays a key role in promoting South-South cooperation and facilitating development across African, Caribbean, and Pacific (ACP) countries.
“Nigeria is committed to fostering closer ties with Benin Republic, particularly through language learning and exchange programs,” Yakub stated. “Our goal is to reduce the linguistic barriers that impede stronger relationships between our nations, as this will lead to better trade and economic outcomes.”
Yakub further mentioned that Nigeria’s diplomatic push is motivated by the potential benefits that stronger cooperation could bring to both countries.
He outlined plans to send English language teachers to Benin Republic to support English language learning, while also ensuring that Nigerians learn French to bridge the communication gap.
This effort, he added, would enhance various aspects of the two countries’ bilateral engagements, including trade, services, and cultural exchange.
In response, Minister Ladekan expressed her gratitude for the visit and extended thanks to President Bola Tinubu for his ongoing commitment to the development of ACP countries through NTAC.
She also acknowledged the Nigerian International School in Cotonou, which has been a successful venture in the country.
The Minister expressed Benin’s eagerness to deepen cooperation with Nigeria, particularly through NTAC, and reaffirmed her country’s desire to build on the partnership for mutual benefit.
Yakub was accompanied by NTAC’s director of programs, Amb. Zakari Usman, and other officials from the Nigerian Mission in Cotonou. Ladekan’s team included Ahounouikpe Judith, Gbenou Victoria, Lalaye Philippe, Youssa Juaka, and Akpovi Salvadore.