Femi Pedro Takes Office as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia, Promises Stronger Ties

Former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Femi Pedro, has formally taken office as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia, vowing to deepen economic cooperation, increase trade and investment, and strengthen engagement with Nigerians living throughout Australia and the Pacific region.

Pedro began his diplomatic duties after presenting his Letters of Credence to the Governor‑General of Australia, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms. Sam Mostyn AC, at a ceremony that marked the start of his tenure as Nigeria’s envoy to Australia, with concurrent accreditation to New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, and other Oceanic states.

Describing the occasion as more than a ceremonial event, the envoy said his appointment represented a call to action aimed at expanding Nigeria’s footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.

He noted that Nigeria and Australia enjoy a growing relationship built on shared Commonwealth values and mutual respect.

Pedro highlighted that both countries have vast opportunities for collaboration in strategic sectors such as critical minerals, agricultural innovation, education, technology, and financial services.

He said Nigeria is open for business and ready to forge stronger partnerships that can deliver economic growth and mutual prosperity.

Pedro pledged to work closely with the Australian government and stakeholders across the Pacific to attract investment, promote educational cooperation, and encourage cultural exchanges that benefit both nations.

He assured Nigerians residing in Australia and across Oceania that the Nigerian mission under his leadership will remain accessible and responsive to their needs.

He said he is assuming office carrying not only the mandate of President Bola Tinubu but also the hopes and aspirations of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

The High Commissioner explained that his diplomatic engagements will be guided by the Tinubu administration’s foreign‑policy doctrine, which is anchored on the four pillars of Demography, Development, Diaspora, and Democracy, while also promoting the National Values Charter as part of efforts to project a positive image of Nigeria globally.

He urged Nigerians in the region to see themselves as ambassadors of the country and partners in nation‑building, stating that the diaspora community remains a critical asset in advancing Nigeria’s interests abroad.