Nigeria-Turkey Relation, unprecedented growth in partnership

Nigeria has maintained a good relationship with Turkey. Presidents of both countries exchange visits. A two-day Turkey -Africa partnership summit was organized on 18 December 2021, focusing on investment and trade.

The next chapter of this relationship is security, with many African leaders seeking to buy military hardware at cheaper rates.

The summit aimed to foster relationships between Turkey with African countries, especially sub-Saharan countries, culturally, economically, and politically. Ultimately it is a win for all parties involved. The number of Turkish embassies has risen to 43 on the continent since 2002.

Nigeria wants lasting partnerships that can be implemented quickly, and Turkey seeks to increase trade volume between the two countries.
Areas that have progressed in Turkey-Nigeria relations include; agriculture, construction, consumer products, education, oil and gas. There is room for more partnerships.

While Nigeria imports fabrics, furniture, agricultural machinery, and medical supplies from Turkey, Turkey imports petroleum, liquefied gas and agricultural products from Nigeria.

During the Turkey-Africa Economic and Business Forum held in October in Istanbul, it was stated that Nigeria’s trade with Turkey will rise from its current level of $2 billion.

Many Turkish companies are set up in Nigeria operating in the energy, construction and manufacturing sectors. Turkish investments in Nigeria amount to a total of $620million.

Both Nigerian and Turkish governments pledge to join forces and fight against all forms of trafficking and terrorism.