Olufemi Pedro, former deputy governor of Lagos state, has formally assumed office as Nigeria’s ambassador to Australia and several Pacific nations after presenting his letters of credence on June 23, 2026.
Pedro said he submitted his credentials to Sam Mostyn AC, the governor-general of the Commonwealth of Australia, describing the ceremony as the official commencement of his diplomatic duties.
He is accredited to Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Solomon Islands and other Pacific nations, marking what he described as “not just a ceremonial milestone, but a call to action.”
According to him, Nigeria and Australia share a “rich and evolving partnership” anchored on mutual respect, Commonwealth values and expanding economic opportunities.
He said areas such as critical minerals, agricultural innovation, education and fintech present strong prospects for deeper collaboration between both countries.
“Nigeria is open for business, and I look forward to working with the Australian government and our partners across the region to advance trade, investment, education and cultural exchange,” he said.
Addressing Nigerians living in Australia and across the Pacific region, Pedro said he had officially assumed duty as their High Commissioner, pledging to represent their identity, aspirations and contributions.
He said his appointment reflects President Bola Tinubu’s mandate and Nigeria’s renewed foreign policy focus on demography, development, diaspora and democracy.
Pedro also said the national values charter would guide his diplomatic engagements, aimed at projecting Nigeria’s identity and interests across the Pacific.
“To my fellow Nigerians in Australia and across the Oceanic States, I am officially in post as your High Commissioner,” he said.
“I carry President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s mandate, and I also carry your identity, your aspirations, your hard work and your pride.”
He called for stronger collaboration between Nigeria and its diaspora community, saying Nigerians abroad remain central to nation-building and global engagement.
“The world is watching Nigeria. Now, we deliver,” he added.
