Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, has stated that Nigerians need to work on improving the image of their country.
The monarch, who mentioned this on Thursday while entertaining a former External Affairs Minister, Tom Ikhimi, said he received support from the ex-minister during his time as an ambassador to Sweden, Denmark, and other Scandinavian countries, under the Late General Sanni Abacha’s regime.
The traditional leader mentioned that his time as an ambassador was difficult because Nigeria was seen as a 'pariah state' that the international community was unhappy with.
He remarked, “We have a lot of work to do to improve the reputation of the country. I want to express gratitude for your support during that time. My posting at that time was like a training experience for me. So, I received all the support at that time because you were in the office.”
Ikimi praised the Oba for his remarkable contributions that helped shape Nigeria and requested for prayers, having reached a significant milestone in life.
He also congratulated the Oba on his upcoming appointment as Chancellor of the National Open University of Nigeria in Abuja.
He stated, “Your Majesty, you are one of the leaders in this world that I admire. I have respect for our tradition, and I am here to congratulate you on what you have done for the esteemed Kingdom of Benin. You have shown respect, and everyone respects the Benin Kingdom under your leadership.
“I congratulate you on the effort you made when I was a foreign affairs minister in agreeing to be our ambassador in the Scandinavian where you gave your best.”