Nigeria’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isolo early in the week was presented with an admirable King Charles III Parting Gift as his time in the country winds down.
The presentation was made by the Marshal of Diplomatic Corps Mr. Alistair Harrison when he paid a farewell visit to His Excellency, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola OFR.
The significant event which took place at the Nigeria High Commission in the United Kingdom, was skilfully anchored by the Head of Chancery, Benita Obazee who set the stage for the ceremonial exchange of goodwill.
Obazee in her opening remarks informed all attendees that the purpose of the meeting was two-fold.
Firstly, she said, the occasion served as an opportunity to witness firsthand message from His Majesty King Charles III, and secondly, it was an occasion for all officers present to introduce themselves, fostering camaraderie among Diplomatic representatives.
Ambassador Cyprian T. Heen, who is Minister/Head (Political) in Nigeria Mission on behalf of the Mission, extended a warm welcome to the Chief Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps.
He emphasized the close working relationship between the Nigeria HighCommission and the United Kingdom government, stressing the shared beliefs and priorities that both sides hold.
Ambassador Heen considered the Marshal’s visit to the High Commission as a testament to this harmonious partnership, and expressed confidence that the message from His Majesty King Charles III would further strengthen the existing relationship.
The Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps Mr. Alistair Harrison, while presenting His Majesty King Charles III gift to Ambassador Isola extended warm greetings from His Majesty King Charles III to all attendees and expressed gratitude to the High Commissioner for his remarkable contributions.
The Marshal emphasized that the formal relationship between two countries remains mutually beneficial to both governments and citizens and wished the High Commissioner well as he returns to Nigeria and presented the gift from the King as a measure of appreciation.
Additionally, the Marshal noted that the Nigeria High Commissioner held the honour of being the last to present his letter of Credence to the late Queen Elizabeth and the first during the reign of King Charles III, a testament to the High Commissioner’s service under two monarchs.
Ambassador Isola in his remarks expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the continuous support received during his tenure.
He used the occasion to introduce the Acting High Commissioner ad interim, Amb. Cyprian T. Heen, and requested the Marshal’s support for the Acting High Commissioner during the transitional period.
Amb. Isola also thanked the Marshal for the unwavering support extended to him and Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of maintaining this relationship and finally presented a gift to the Marshal as a measure of gratitude.
The impending Acting High Commissioner, Amb. Cyprian T. Heen, applauded the Marshal’s speech and expressed his eagerness to work closely with both the Marshal and the United Kingdom government.
He acknowledged the strong foundation established by the High Commissioner and anticipate a continued growth of this relationship.
