By Gabriel Ameh
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and strategic relations with Israel as both countries seek deeper cooperation in key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, innovation, technology, and security.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known during a meeting with the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, in Abuja.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions during the meeting focused on bilateral relations between Nigeria and Israel, developments in the Middle East, multilateral cooperation, and opportunities for expanded partnerships in areas of mutual interest.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and high-level engagements in strengthening ties between both nations.
She also reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to continue constructive engagement with Israel on regional and global issues, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains open to dialogue with Israeli leadership.
During the meeting, Ambassador Freeman congratulated the Foreign Affairs Minister on her appointment and delivered a goodwill message from the Israeli Foreign Minister, including an invitation for her to undertake an official visit to Israel.
The Israeli envoy highlighted the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and Israel and emphasized the need to revive high-level official exchanges between both countries.
Both diplomats also discussed recent developments in the Middle East, particularly the security situation in Israel and ongoing regional tensions.
Ambassador Freeman briefed the Nigerian government on the humanitarian and security implications of the conflict while expressing hope for peaceful resolutions and stronger regional cooperation.
The meeting further highlighted opportunities for increased collaboration in food security, medical support, innovation programmes, and technical cooperation.
Freeman expressed confidence that Israeli technology and expertise could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s development priorities, especially in agriculture and food production.
On multilateral affairs, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation within international organisations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organisation, while emphasizing continued dialogue on global and regional issues of shared concern.
