Türkiye and Nigeria: A Strategic Partnership in Africa
The collaboration between Türkiye and Nigeria is centered on shared visions in counterterrorism and regional stability. This partnership highlights the strategic roles both nations play in their respective regions.
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- Türkiye supports Nigeria in battling terrorist groups like Boko Haram.
- The partnership includes combating the Gülenist Terror Group (FETÖ).
- Nigeria is crucial to West Africa’s stability and the continent as a whole.
Strengthening Security and Economic Ties
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to Türkiye marks an important step in enhancing bilateral relations, focusing on security and economic cooperation. The visit follows reciprocal engagements aimed at fortifying ties.
- Nine agreements signed in various sectors including security and trade.
- Military cooperation expected to deepen, enhancing Nigeria’s counterterrorism capacity.
- A “win-win” approach emphasizes respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Joint Economic and Trade Cooperation Committee
A significant outcome of these discussions was the establishment of the Joint Economic and Trade Cooperation Committee (JETCO), which aims to boost trade and investment.
- JETCO is designed to remove trade and investment barriers.
- Targeting a $5 billion bilateral trade goal.
- Current trade stands at $1 billion, with potential to grow significantly.
Collaboration in Energy and Infrastructure
Türkiye and Nigeria are exploring opportunities for collaboration in the energy and infrastructure sectors, with ongoing efforts to translate agreements into actionable projects.
- Existing cooperation in energy, mining, and hydrocarbons.
- Focus on local resource processing and electricity distribution.
- Increased Turkish investment in Nigerian infrastructure projects.
Shared Positions and Regional Cooperation
Türkiye and Nigeria have taken a united stance on various regional issues, affirming their commitment to “African solutions to African problems.”
- Joint opposition to Israel’s recognition of North Western State of Somalia.
- Support for Somalia and alignment within the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).
- Encouragement of democracy and peace in West Africa via ECOWAS.
By Ali Musa
Axadle Times international–Monitoring.
