Nigeria, Israel Move to Deepen Diplomatic, Economic Ties

Nigeria and Israel have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations through sustained diplomatic engagement, economic cooperation, and expanded collaboration in critical sectors including agriculture, healthcare, technology, and security.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known while receiving Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.

The meeting focused on Nigeria-Israel relations, developments in the Middle East, multilateral cooperation, and opportunities for deeper strategic partnerships between both countries.

According to the minister, Nigeria remains committed to constructive dialogue and sustained engagement with Israel on issues of mutual interest and global importance.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the importance of high-level diplomatic exchanges, mutual understanding, and cooperation in strengthening ties between the two nations.

She also noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains committed to constructive engagement with the Israeli leadership as part of Nigeria’s broader foreign policy objectives.

The Israeli envoy congratulated the minister on her appointment and conveyed a goodwill message from Israel’s Foreign Minister, alongside an invitation for an official visit to Israel.

Freeman described Nigeria and Israel as long-standing partners and called for renewed high-level exchanges to further consolidate bilateral relations.

Both sides also exchanged views on the evolving security situation in the Middle East and broader regional tensions.

The Israeli ambassador briefed the Nigerian delegation on the humanitarian and security implications of the ongoing conflict in the region while expressing optimism for peaceful resolutions and stronger regional cooperation.

Discussions further explored ways to expand collaboration in agriculture, innovation, medical support, and technical development.

Freeman expressed confidence that Israeli expertise and technology could significantly support Nigeria’s food security drive and broader national development agenda.

The two countries also deliberated on cooperation within multilateral organisations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization.

Both parties reaffirmed the importance of sustained dialogue, confidence-building measures, and stronger multilateral cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges.