By Omonu YG Nelson
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, held high-level discussions with foreign ministers from Sweden, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Denmark in Abuja on Tuesday. The meeting aimed to deepen the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the Nordic countries, which dates back to Nigeria’s independence.
Ambassador Tuggar emphasized the historical significance of this relationship, noting that “Finland was among the first nations to recognize Nigeria as a republic.” He added, “These are the Nordic countries. We have had a very long relationship with them going back to our independence. They have been consistent partners in our fight against terrorism, particularly in de-radicalization and resettlement efforts in the Lake Chad region.”
The discussions covered various areas, including trade relations, renewable energy, research and development, and global development. Tuggar highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s recent launch of Compressed Natural Gas buses, part of a broader initiative to reduce reliance on imported petroleum products. “These are the types of partnerships we need,” he stated, praising the Nordic countries for their advancements in cyclical economy and renewable technology.
Swedish Foreign Affairs Minister Tobias Billström, speaking on behalf of the Nordic delegation, underscored the longstanding and deep-rooted relationship between Nigeria and the Nordic countries. He noted that Nigeria stands as one of the countries’ largest trading partners in Africa and plays a significant role on the global stage, particularly in promoting peace and stability within West Africa.
Billström expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s efforts to promote stability and democracy within the Economic Community of West African States and lauded Nigeria’s support for strengthening ties between the United Nations and regional organizations. “Nigeria is a prominent actor on the regional and global stage and plays an important role in maintaining peace and furthering international cooperation,” he said.
The visit marked a significant milestone in the partnership between Nigeria and the Nordic countries, with Billström emphasizing that “Nigeria and the Nordics are key partners in an array of areas, not only global and regional security but also trade and investment, promoting human rights and democracy, as well as combating climate change.”