Nigeria, EU renew commitment to deepen diplomatic, parliamentary ties
Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have renewed their commitment to deepen diplomatic and parliamentary relations as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional development and global cooperation.
The renewed partnership was announced on Monday during a visit by members of the European Parliament to Abuja.
The delegation, led by David McAllister, chairman of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, was received by Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s minister of Foreign Affairs.
Tuggar described the EU as one of Nigeria’s most strategic partners, noting that the relationship between both sides dates back several decades.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to expand collaboration with the European bloc in areas such as governance, trade, and sustainable development.
“We have the burden of responsibility to develop our region, and the European Union model is our model.
“We will do everything possible to strengthen our diplomatic and parliamentary ties with the EU and fast-track Nigeria’s journey toward sustainable development”, Tuggar said.
The minister also highlighted Nigeria’s growing engagement with the EU, citing its membership as the 77th shareholder of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
He said the partnership reflects Nigeria’s expanding role in the global economic and diplomatic space.
In his remarks, McAllister commended Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and reiterated the EU’s commitment to sustaining a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.
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He described Nigeria as an “indispensable partner” in driving Africa’s development and promoting global stability.
“Nigeria, as Africa’s most populous nation and one of its key economic and political players, is an indispensable partner to the European Union.
“Our visit here is not only to strengthen existing ties but also to lay the groundwork for a successful EU-Africa Summit”, McAllister said.
McAllister explained that the visit to Nigeria formed part of a broader diplomatic tour across West Africa, which also included Ghana and other countries.
The engagements, he said, were aimed at fostering deeper understanding, mutual trust, and collaboration on key global issues such as democracy, trade, security, and climate resilience.
