Nigeria’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Australia, Ambassador Femi Pedro, has formally presented his Letters of Credence to Australia’s Governor-General, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn AC, marking the official commencement of his diplomatic assignment in the region.
The credential presentation ceremony, held in Canberra on Tuesday, confirms Ambassador Pedro’s accreditation as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia, with concurrent responsibilities for New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands and other Oceanic states.
Speaking after the ceremony, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Ambassador Pedro described the occasion as more than a diplomatic formality, saying it signalled the beginning of a renewed effort to strengthen relations between Nigeria and Australia and expand engagement across the Pacific region.
He noted that Nigeria and Australia share a growing partnership founded on mutual respect, Commonwealth ties and expanding economic opportunities. Areas identified for increased cooperation include critical minerals, agricultural innovation, education, financial technology, trade and investment.
“Nigeria is open for business, and I look forward to working closely with the Australian Government and our partners across the region to deepen economic and cultural ties,” Ambassador Pedro said.
The High Commissioner also addressed Nigerians living in Australia and across the Oceanic states, assuring them of the mission’s commitment to supporting the diaspora community and strengthening their connection with Nigeria.
He said his mandate aligns with the foreign policy priorities of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, particularly in the areas of demography, development, diaspora engagement and democracy.
He added that Nigeria’s National Values Charter would underpin the country’s diplomatic engagements throughout the region.
Ambassador Pedro called on Nigerians in the Pacific to partner with the mission in promoting Nigeria’s interests and enhancing the country’s image abroad.
“The world is watching Nigeria. Now, we deliver,” he said.
The appointment comes as Nigeria seeks to expand its diplomatic and economic footprint in the Indo-Pacific region and strengthen bilateral cooperation with Australia and neighbouring Pacific nations.
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