By Gabriel Ameh
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to human rights, peaceful coexistence, and international cooperation during a high-level meeting with a delegation from the First Step Forum in Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, who represented the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, received the delegation led by Executive Director, Marc Jost.
This was contained in a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Abuja
He stated that during the meeting, the Permanent Secretary conveyed the Minister’s appreciation for the visit while noting his absence due to official engagements.
In his remarks, Marc Jost highlighted the First Step Forum’s role as a global network dedicated to promoting religious freedom, human rights, and peaceful coexistence. He explained that the delegation’s visit aimed to foster dialogue and strengthen engagement with key stakeholders across Nigeria.
Members of the delegation emphasized the need to deepen cooperation between Nigeria and Europe, particularly in the areas of security, human rights, and economic development. They also expressed interest in Nigeria’s governance system, foreign policy direction, and investment climate.
Responding, Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s identity as a multicultural and multi-religious nation guided by the rule of law. While acknowledging existing security and developmental challenges, he stressed the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and fundamental human rights.
He further outlined Nigeria’s foreign policy anchored on the “4-Ds” framework Democracy, Development, Demography, and Diaspora and highlighted the country’s leadership role within Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the African Union in promoting regional peace and stability.
On economic diplomacy, the Permanent Secretary reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and strengthening trade relations, including leveraging opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
He also proposed the development of a formal framework of cooperation between the First Step Forum and Nigeria’s National Assembly to support legislative collaboration and institutional capacity building.
In response, Marc Jost expressed appreciation for the engagement and reaffirmed the Forum’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Nigeria, including plans for future visits to expand partnerships.
