Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have sought to deepen bilateral relations in key sectors including trade and investment, energy transition, agriculture, and water management.
The commitment was reaffirmed during a meeting in Abuja between Dunoma Ahmed, Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Robert Zimmerman, Sahel Envoy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, alongside members of the Dutch delegation.
A statement issued on Sunday by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesman of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said both countries are seeking to advance shared economic and development priorities.
According to the statement, the engagement provided an opportunity for both sides to hold extensive discussions on strengthening cooperation while also addressing common regional and global challenges.
It also noted that the meeting reviewed the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and the Netherlands, which dates back to 1960, and explored ways to scale up collaboration in priority sectors that are critical to economic growth and sustainability in both countries.
Read also: Nigeria, Netherlands strengthen migration, border security partnership with new tech tools
“Beyond trade and investment, discussions also focused on youth empowerment, migration governance, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, counter-terrorism efforts, and enhanced multilateral cooperation.
“Both parties acknowledged the need for coordinated approaches to tackle insecurity and transnational threats, particularly in the West African sub-region.
“The Nigerian and Dutch sides reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership anchored on mutual respect, equality, and shared values.
“Emphasis was placed on addressing the root causes of insecurity, promoting sustainable development, and strengthening people-to-people relations as a foundation for long-term cooperation”, the statement read.
The talks also highlighted the importance of cultural diplomacy, knowledge and technology exchange, and private-sector collaboration in driving inclusive growth and economic diversification.
According to the statement both sides agreed that deeper engagement between businesses, institutions, and civil society would further strengthen bilateral ties.
