ISTANBUL

Nigeria's Head of State Bola Ahmed Tinubu pledged on Tuesday to deepen cooperation with Türkiye on security and trade, citing shared efforts to combat instability and promote economic growth.

“You can bet on me that I will be there with you for democracy, freedom and prosperity,” Tinubu told Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at a joint news conference in Ankara.

During his first official visit to Türkiye, Tinubu said he discussed with Erdogan issues of mutual interest, including expanding trade ties, boosting business opportunities, and building an inclusive economy that empowers people willing to learn and work.

He stressed the importance of economic reforms that engage vulnerable populations while fostering peace and stability, particularly across Africa.

The Nigerian leader described Erdogan’s commitment to democracy, freedom, and development as commendable, especially for its support to vulnerable communities worldwide.

He said Türkiye’s efforts in Somalia are “well noted.”

- Türkiye, Nigeria strengthen strategic partnership with 9 key agreements

Nine agreements were signed between Türkiye and Nigeria in the presence of Presidents Erdogan and Tinubu following bilateral and delegation-level talks.

Covering a wide range of sectors, the agreements include cooperation on military training, diaspora policy, media and communication, higher education, halal accreditation, diplomatic training, and social and women’s affairs.

Türkiye and Africa’s most populous country have maintained diplomatic relations since Nov. 9, 1960.

Bilateral trade volume between the two countries reached $688.4 million in the first 11 months of 2025. When energy trade is included, Nigeria became Türkiye’s largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa in 2025.

Agreements on military training, defense, and security have reinforced strategic ties, with the Nigerian Air Force having purchased drones and six ATAK T129 attack helicopters from Türkiye.

Turkish firms have long operated in Nigeria’s construction, energy, textile, and manufacturing sectors, exporting products such as iron, steel, machinery, and food, while importing crude oil and agricultural goods.

More than 50 Turkish-owned companies operate in Nigeria, with total investments valued at around $400 million. In recent years, the number of projects undertaken by Turkish contractors has increased significantly, with the total value nearing $3 billion.

In line with Ankara’s support for Abuja’s counterterrorism efforts, cooperation in military affairs, security, and the defense industry continues to strengthen steadily.