Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have renewed their commitment to deepen diplomatic and parliamentary relations as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional development and global cooperation.
The renewed partnership was announced on Monday during the visit of Members of the European Parliament to Abuja.
The delegation, led by David McAllister, Chairman of the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee, was welcomed by Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar.
Tuggar described the EU as one of Nigeria's most strategic partners, noting that relations between the two parties go back several decades.
He reaffirmed Nigeria's readiness to expand cooperation with the European bloc in areas such as governance, trade and sustainable development.
“We are burdened with the responsibility of developing our region, and the EU model is our model.
“We will do everything possible to strengthen our diplomatic and parliamentary relations with the EU and accelerate Nigeria’s journey to sustainable development,” Tuggar said.
The Minister also highlighted Nigeria’s growing engagement with the European Union, citing its membership as the 77th shareholder of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
He said the partnership reflects Nigeria’s growing role in the global economic and diplomatic arena.
In his remarks, McAllister commended Nigeria's leadership role in Africa and reiterated the EU's commitment to maintaining a strong and mutually beneficial relationship.
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He described Nigeria as an “indispensable partner” in advancing Africa's development and promoting global stability.
“Nigeria, as Africa's most populous country and one of its key economic and political players, is an indispensable partner of the EU.
“Our visit here is not only to strengthen existing relations, but also to lay the groundwork for a successful EU-Africa summit,” McAllister said.
McAllister said the visit to Nigeria is part of a broader diplomatic tour across West Africa, which also includes Ghana and other countries.
He said the talks are aimed at promoting deeper understanding, mutual trust and cooperation on key global issues such as democracy, trade, security and climate resilience.
