President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to leave Abuja on Monday, January 26, for an official state visit to Türkiye, marking a new phase in diplomatic engagement between the two countries.
The Presidency confirmed the trip through Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. According to the statement, the visit is designed to deepen bilateral relations while opening fresh channels for cooperation across strategic sectors.
Strengthening Nigeria–Türkiye Relations
The state visit builds on the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Türkiye. It also follows the official visit by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to Nigeria in October 2021, which laid the groundwork for expanded diplomatic and economic ties.
During President Tinubu’s visit, both governments are expected to hold extensive political and diplomatic consultations. These discussions will focus on shared priorities, including security collaboration, trade expansion, financial cooperation, communications, and investment opportunities.
MoUs and Strategic Agreements on the Agenda
A major highlight of the visit will be the signing of multiple memoranda of understanding. These agreements are expected to cover a wide range of sectors, including scientific research, energy development, technical partnerships, media and communications, military cooperation, and diplomatic protocol.
Through these agreements, both countries aim to formalize cooperation frameworks that can deliver long-term economic and institutional benefits.
Business Forum to Boost Trade and Investment
In addition to government-level engagements, a Nigeria–Türkiye business forum will be held during the visit. The forum will bring together investors and business leaders from both countries to identify opportunities in bilateral trade, manufacturing, infrastructure, and innovation-driven industries.
Officials say the forum is intended to translate diplomatic goodwill into tangible economic outcomes by encouraging private-sector partnerships.
High-Profile Delegation Accompanies the President
President Tinubu will be accompanied by a senior delegation drawn from key ministries and security agencies. Members of the delegation include the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN; Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd); and Chairman of the House Committee on Defence, Hon. Jimi Benson.
Other officials on the trip include the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Minister of Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa; National Security Adviser, Malam Nuhu Ribadu; and the Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency, Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed.
Return Expected After Conclusion of Visit
The Presidency said President Tinubu will return to Nigeria after concluding the state visit. Observers say the trip could mark a significant step in repositioning Nigeria’s foreign policy, particularly in strengthening ties with non-Western strategic partners.
