King Charles III, has paid a farewell visit to the Nigeria High Commissioner to United Kingdom, Amb. Sarafa Tunji Isola.
The farewell visit was sequel to President Bola Tinubu’s directive that all career and non-career ambassadors return to Nigeria from their duty posts before 31 October, 2023.
King Charles III represented by the Marshal of the Diplomatic Corps Mr. Alistair Harrison expressed gratitude to the High Commissioner for his remarkable contributions, adding that the formal relationship between Nigeria and the UK has remained mutually beneficial to both governments and citizens.
The Marshal noted that the Amb. Sarafa Isola 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.
He wished the High Commissioner well as he returns to Nigeria and presented a gift from the King as a measure of appreciation.
Responding, the High Commissioner, Amb. Sarafa Tunji Isola 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. Sarafa Tunji Isola also thanked the Marshal for the unwavering support extended to him and Nigeria, and emphasized the importance of maintaining the relationship.
The impending Acting High Commissioner, Amb. Cyprian T. Heen, 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.
Speaking earlier on behalf of the Mission, Ambassador Cyprian T. Heen, emphasized the close working relationship between the Nigeria High Commission and the United Kingdom government, stressing the shared beliefs and priorities that both sides hold.
He 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.
