The federal government says Nigeria and Turkey will establish a joint economy and trade committee to boost bilateral trade to $5 billion.
President Bola Tinubu departed Abuja on Monday for a state visit to Turkey.
In a statement, Bayo Onanuga, presidential spokesperson, said Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara’s commitment to expanding trade during a joint press briefing with Tinubu.
Onanuga said the joint committee, announced after high-level talks, will develop strategies to deepen economic cooperation and raise trade volume from about $1 billion to $5 billion.
Tinubu’s Visit Signal’s Commitment On Foreign Investment – Erdogan
Erdogan said the presence of Tinubu, alongside several ministers and senior officials, underscored Nigeria’s resolve to attract foreign investment.
“Today, we conducted a comprehensive review of our relations with the esteemed president and his delegation in the fields of trade, investments, energy, education and the defence industry,” Erdogan said.
He praised Tinubu’s energy sector reforms, describing them as key to restructuring Nigeria’s economy, and expressed optimism that partnerships between Turkish and Nigerian energy companies, including the Turkish Petroleum Corporation, would deliver positive outcomes.
The Turkish president also pledged support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism, citing Turkey’s experience in counter-insurgency and proposing cooperation in military training, intelligence sharing and defence industry partnerships.
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Tinubu, in his remarks, commended Turkey for working with Nigeria to promote global freedom, stability and prosperity, and stressed the importance of building an inclusive economy that supports vulnerable groups.
“What is very important to the countries being discussed is trade and business, no restrictions, and giving opportunities to those who are ready to learn, work and prosper,” the president said.
He raised questions on building an inclusive economy, reforming systems to involve vulnerable people, and ensuring global peace, adding that Nigeria would continue to play a leading role in promoting peace and stability in Africa despite regional challenges.
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Beyond the joint declaration establishing the economy and trade committee, Nigeria and Turkey signed eight additional agreements covering defence cooperation, diaspora policy and halal quality infrastructure.
The agreements also include collaborations in higher education, media, education and social services, with partnerships involving institutions such as Turkey’s diplomacy academy and Nigeria’s foreign affairs academy.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
