Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar (right), meets with his Japanese counterpart during TICAD 9 in Yokohama to discuss strengthening diplomatic and economic ties
Nigeria and Japan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations during a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9).
The discussions, held between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, and his Japanese counterpart, focused on expanding bilateral cooperation in areas including energy transition, agriculture, infrastructure, and the digital economy.
Ambassador Tuggar commended Japan for its leadership in fostering Africa’s growth through TICAD and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). “Nigeria appreciates Japan’s hospitality and leadership in hosting TICAD 9. Japan has been a reliable partner in Africa’s development, and we look forward to scaling up our cooperation in areas of mutual interest,” he said.
The talks also explored technical collaboration in renewable energy, climate-smart agriculture, vocational training, and innovation. Security and peacebuilding were highlighted, covering counterterrorism efforts, maritime safety in the Gulf of Guinea, and contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
Tuggar invited Japanese technology firms to participate in Nigeria’s Smart City and digital economy initiatives. “We are keen on strengthening collaboration in science, technology, and innovation. Japan’s expertise will be valuable in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build resilient digital and health systems,” he added.
In line with TICAD 9 priorities of inclusive growth, climate resilience, and peacebuilding, both ministers committed to enhanced multilateral cooperation, including United Nations reform and global peace initiatives.
Ambassador Tuggar concluded the engagement by inviting his Japanese counterpart to Nigeria for follow-up consultations and proposed the creation of a Nigeria–Japan Strategic Partnership Framework to guide future collaboration.
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