Nine agreements signed as both nations deepen defence cooperation, economic ties, and strategic partnership
By Baron Stanley Eloagu | Ankara, Türkiye
President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has pledged Türkiye’s full support to Nigeria in combating terrorism, while unveiling a $5 billion bilateral trade target during high-level talks with Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Ankara.
The meeting, held during Tinubu’s official state visit, signalled a significant expansion of security cooperation and economic diplomacy between both countries.
Türkiye Pledges Counter-Terrorism Support
Erdoğan acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, particularly within the Sahel and West African region, and reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to supporting Abuja through intelligence sharing, military training, and defence collaboration.
“Terrorist organisations emerging in Africa’s Sahel region threaten continental peace. We stand by Nigeria in its fight against terrorism,” Erdoğan stated.
He added that discussions were underway between Nigerian authorities and Turkish defence firms, with expectations of concrete outcomes in defence technology and operational support.
$5 Billion Trade Target Takes Centre Stage
Economic cooperation featured prominently in the bilateral talks, with both leaders reaffirming their commitment to achieving a $5 billion trade volume.
Erdoğan disclosed that the newly established Joint Economy and Trade Committee (JETCO) would drive the implementation of trade expansion strategies, investment flows, and commercial partnerships.
“We discussed concrete steps needed to reach the $5 billion target,” he said, highlighting strong potential in trade and industrial collaboration.
Energy and Infrastructure Partnerships Expand
The Turkish leader commended Tinubu’s economic reforms, particularly in the energy sector, describing them as critical to Nigeria’s restructuring efforts.
He expressed optimism about collaboration between Turkish energy institutions such as Turkish Petroleum Corporation and BOTAŞ, alongside Nigerian counterparts.
Türkiye is also seeking to expand investments in infrastructure, manufacturing, and industrial development across Nigeria.
Tinubu Pushes Inclusive Economic Growth
President Tinubu welcomed Türkiye’s support, emphasising the need for an inclusive economic framework that integrates vulnerable populations into productive sectors.
“We must build an economy that creates opportunity for all, especially those willing to work and contribute to national development,” Tinubu said.
He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and stability despite persistent security pressures.
Nine Strategic Agreements Signed
At the conclusion of the bilateral engagement, both countries signed and exchanged nine cooperation agreements spanning:
- Defence cooperation
- Education and higher education
- Media and communication
- Diaspora engagement
- Social development and women affairs
- Foreign affairs and diplomatic training
- Halal quality infrastructure
- Establishment of JETCO
The agreements are expected to strengthen institutional collaboration and accelerate implementation of joint initiatives.
A Deepening Strategic Partnership
Erdoğan described Tinubu’s visit as a clear demonstration of Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with Türkiye, while Tinubu commended Türkiye’s role in global peace efforts, particularly in Somalia.
With expanded defence collaboration and clearly defined economic targets, both countries signalled a shift toward a more structured and strategic partnership anchored on security, trade, and development.
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