Former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Femi Pedro, has officially assumed office as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Australia, pledging to strengthen trade, investment opportunities, and engagement with Nigerians living across Australia and the Pacific region.
Pedro formally began his diplomatic assignment after presenting his Letters of Credence to Sam Mostyn, the Governor-General of Australia, in a ceremony marking the commencement of his tenure as Nigeria’s envoy to Australia, with concurrent accreditation to New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands, and other Oceanic states.
Describing his appointment as more than a ceremonial milestone, Pedro said it represents a call to action aimed at expanding Nigeria’s presence and influence in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.
The new High Commissioner noted that Nigeria and Australia share an evolving relationship built on mutual respect and Commonwealth values, highlighting significant opportunities for collaboration in critical minerals, agricultural innovation, education, technology, and financial services. He stressed that Nigeria remains open to business and ready to forge stronger partnerships capable of driving economic growth and mutual prosperity.
Pedro pledged to work closely with the Australian government and stakeholders across the Pacific region to attract investments, promote educational partnerships, and encourage cultural exchanges that will benefit both nations.
He also assured Nigerians residing in Australia and the Oceanic states that the Nigerian mission under his leadership would remain accessible and responsive to their needs, describing the diaspora as a vital asset in advancing Nigeria’s interests abroad.
According to Pedro, his diplomatic engagements will be guided by President Bola Tinubu’s foreign policy doctrine anchored on the four pillars of Demography, Development, Diaspora, and Democracy, while also promoting Nigeria’s National Values Charter as part of efforts to project a positive image of the country globally.
