By Joy Omagha Idam, Abuja
Nigeria and the State of Israel have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper diplomatic engagement and enhanced bilateral cooperation in key sectors including agriculture, healthcare, innovation, technology, and security.
This was disclosed during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Ambassador of the State of Israel to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, held in Abuja on Tuesday.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, discussions at the meeting centred on Nigeria-Israel relations, developments in the Middle East, multilateral cooperation, and opportunities for expanded collaboration between both nations.
Speaking during the meeting, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized the importance of sustained dialogue, mutual understanding, and high-level engagements in promoting stronger bilateral ties.
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to continue engaging Israel on issues of shared interest and global concern, while noting that President Bola Tinubu remains committed to constructive dialogue and diplomatic cooperation with Israeli leadership.
The Israeli Ambassador congratulated the Foreign Affairs Minister on her appointment and delivered a goodwill message from the Israeli Foreign Minister, including an invitation for her to undertake an official visit to Israel.
Ambassador Freeman highlighted the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and Israel and stressed the need to revive high-level official exchanges between both countries to strengthen cooperation further.
Both sides also discussed recent developments in the Middle East, particularly the security situation in Israel and ongoing regional tensions. The Israeli envoy briefed the Minister on the humanitarian and security implications of the conflict and expressed optimism for peaceful resolutions and stronger regional cooperation.
The meeting further explored areas of collaboration in food security, medical support, innovation programmes, and technical cooperation. Ambassador Freeman expressed confidence that Israeli expertise and technological advancement could support Nigeria’s development priorities, especially in agriculture and healthcare.
On multilateral affairs, both countries reaffirmed the importance of continued cooperation within international organisations, including the United Nations and the World Health Organization, while emphasizing confidence-building measures and sustained diplomatic engagement on regional and global matters.
The statement was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.