By Chioma Favour
📍Abuja | Media360Impact Report
Nigeria and Somalia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key areas, including security, economic development, and institutional capacity-building.
This followed a high-level meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Somali Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohamed Osman Mohamed, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
This was contained in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson,
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja on
Wednesday, 6 May 2026
During the engagement, Ahmed welcomed the Somali envoy and emphasized Nigeria’s readiness to deepen diplomatic ties, noting that sustained collaboration would further strengthen the long-standing relationship between both countries.
He reiterated Nigeria’s support for Somalia’s ongoing efforts toward national stabilization, institutional strengthening, and development, while also stressing the importance of respecting the country’s sovereignty.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mohamed highlighted the need for stronger collaboration in intelligence sharing, security cooperation, and institutional development. He pointed to shared security challenges such as terrorism and transnational crime, calling for structured mechanisms to effectively address them.
The Somali envoy also identified opportunities for enhanced cooperation in cultural exchange, technology transfer, and investment, while briefing Nigeria on the current security situation in Somalia.
He expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s continued support and that of the international community in safeguarding Somalia’s territorial integrity.
Responding, Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s willingness to share its experience in tackling terrorism and insurgency through both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies.
He outlined additional areas of collaboration, including maritime security, anti-piracy efforts, and manpower development, noting their importance for regional stability and economic security.
Both countries also explored opportunities for economic cooperation in agriculture, mining, digital technology, and fintech, highlighting their potential to drive growth and create jobs, particularly for young people.
The meeting further underscored the importance of promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration across Africa as a way to address irregular migration challenges.
The discussions ended with both sides expressing commitment to sustained engagement and practical outcomes that will strengthen diplomatic relations and deliver mutual benefits for Nigeria and Somalia.
