According to a report by Channels TV on February 24, 2024, President Bola Tinubu's planned visit to Qatar in March for bilateral discussions remains on track despite speculations suggesting a snub by the Asian nation's authorities.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed on Saturday that President Tinubu's visit to Qatar is scheduled for 2-3 March and will proceed as planned.
A leaked memo between the Embassy of the State of Qatar in Abuja and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had sparked rumors of a possible snub by Qatari authorities.
However, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the leaked memo was misrepresented and did not indicate any form of snub.
In a statement issued by the ministry's spokesperson, Francisca Omayuli, it was affirmed that President Tinubu's visit would involve bilateral discussions at the highest level covering a wide range of strategic, diplomatic, and economic issues.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, emphasized the longstanding friendship and close bilateral relations between Nigeria and Qatar.
He expressed optimism that President Tinubu's visit to Doha would further strengthen this important relationship.
Presidential media aide, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed claims of a snub by Qatari authorities as the work of "mischief makers."
He clarified that the leaked memo was related to a private sector-led Business and Investment Forum to be held during President Tinubu's state visit and not indicative of any snub.
Onanuga highlighted the strong bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Qatar, affirming that President Tinubu's visit was extended on the invitation of the Emir of Qatar, Sheik Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani.
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