The Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands have reaffirmed their commitment to a strategic partnership aimed at tackling regional insecurity and boosting economic growth.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, PhD, hosted a Dutch delegation led by the Sahel Envoy, Mr. Robert Zimmerman, in Abuja on Tuesday for a high-level diplomatic engagement.
The dialogue focused on a wide-reaching agenda designed to modernize the longstanding relationship between the two nations, which dates back to 1960. Key priority areas discussed included trade and investment, energy transition, agriculture, and water management.
Beyond economic cooperation, both parties addressed pressing security concerns, specifically focusing on maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea and counter-terrorism efforts. Given Mr. Zimmerman’s role as Sahel Envoy, a significant portion of the talks centered on addressing the root causes of instability in the Sahel region and the importance of regional stability.
According to a statement signed by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the engagement also touched on migration governance, youth empowerment, and the role of the private sector in driving inclusive development.
Both delegations emphasized that the partnership is built on mutual respect and shared values. They expressed a joint commitment to cultural diplomacy and knowledge exchange as tools to strengthen people-to-people ties between the two countries.
The meeting concluded with a pledge to maintain sustained dialogue and expand cooperation in support of economic diversification and a rules-based international order.
