Tinubu Returns from Türkiye with Major Trade and Security Agreements

President Bola Tinubu on Saturday night returned to Abuja after a successful state visit to the Republic of Türkiye, where Nigeria and Türkiye strengthened diplomatic, economic, and security relations through bilateral talks and the signing of key agreements.

The President arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 8:55 p.m. and was received by senior government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun; and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle.

During his stay in Ankara, Tinubu held high-level discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. Both leaders pledged to expand cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, defence, energy, and counter-terrorism.

At a joint press conference, President Erdoğan reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to increasing bilateral trade with Nigeria to $5 billion, up from the current level of about $2 billion. He disclosed that discussions were already ongoing to achieve the target.

Erdoğan also announced plans to establish a Joint Economy and Trade Committee, describing it as a vital platform for boosting investment opportunities, expanding trade volumes, and strengthening Turkish business presence in Nigeria.

The Turkish leader praised Tinubu’s economic reform agenda and efforts to attract foreign investment, noting that the size of Nigeria’s delegation demonstrated strong political will to deepen bilateral ties.

On energy cooperation, Erdoğan expressed optimism that partnerships between the Turkish Petroleum Corporation and Nigerian institutions would deliver concrete results.

In the area of security, Türkiye pledged support for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, particularly in the Sahel region, offering enhanced cooperation in military training, intelligence sharing, and defence industry collaboration.

In his remarks, President Tinubu thanked Türkiye for its commitment to shared prosperity and global stability. He stressed the need for inclusive economic growth that brings vulnerable populations into productive activities.

Tinubu also commended Erdoğan’s role in promoting peace in Somalia and reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability across Africa despite ongoing security challenges.

At the conclusion of the visit, officials from both countries exchanged nine agreements covering defence cooperation, diaspora policy, halal quality infrastructure, higher education, media and communication, diplomatic training, education, and social services.

The agreements are expected to strengthen institutional partnerships and expand mutually beneficial relations between Nigeria and Türkiye.