By Joy Omagha Idam
The longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) is set for deeper and more practical cooperation following high-level discussions between both sides in Abuja.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, PhD, on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, received the Assistant Secretary-General of the OIC, Ambassador Dr. Tarig Ali Bakheet, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The meeting provided an opportunity for Nigeria and the OIC to review their longstanding relationship and explore new areas of cooperation capable of delivering tangible benefits to citizens and member states.
Central to the discussions were humanitarian affairs, youth empowerment, countering extremism, cultural exchange, capacity building and socio-economic development.
Nigeria Pushes Humanitarian Cooperation
Ambassador Dunoma reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives and programmes of the OIC, while proposing the establishment of a Nigeria–OIC Working Group on Humanitarian Affairs.
According to him, the proposed mechanism would strengthen regional coordination in responding to insecurity and humanitarian challenges affecting the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.
He also stressed the importance of advancing interfaith dialogue and providing greater assistance to displaced and vulnerable populations affected by conflicts and insecurity.
The Permanent Secretary further advocated stronger cultural cooperation between Nigeria and OIC member states, including the organisation of cultural festivals designed to expose young people to the richness and diversity of different cultural traditions.
Such initiatives, he noted, could contribute to promoting peace, unity, tolerance and mutual understanding among young people.
Focus on Women, Youth and Healthcare
Beyond diplomacy and cultural relations, Ambassador Dunoma called for increased OIC-supported programmes in vocational training, women’s empowerment and healthcare development.
The proposal reflects Nigeria’s interest in ensuring that its partnership with the OIC translates into practical opportunities for citizens, particularly women and young people.
He emphasised the need for cooperation that strengthens skills development, expands economic opportunities and improves access to essential services.
OIC Commends Nigeria
Responding, Ambassador Dr. Tarig Ali Bakheet commended Nigeria for its active and constructive role within the OIC and expressed the Organisation’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the country in areas of mutual interest.
He invited Nigeria to consider hosting the next OIC Social Development Conference as well as annual cultural festivals.
The OIC Assistant Secretary-General also encouraged stronger Nigerian representation in managerial positions within the Organisation, an indication of the value placed on Nigeria’s contribution to the OIC.
Both sides agreed that sustained high-level engagement and practical cooperation remain essential to strengthening relations for the benefit of Nigeria, OIC member states and the wider Islamic world.
Nigeria to Attend Jeddah Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
The Permanent Secretary assured the visiting OIC official that Nigeria would participate in the forthcoming OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting, scheduled to take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on August 27, 2026.
The meeting is expected to include the election of a new Secretary-General of the Organisation.
The Abuja engagement ended on a cordial note, reaffirming Nigeria’s longstanding partnership with the OIC and signalling a renewed push towards cooperation that extends beyond traditional diplomatic relations to humanitarian action, youth development, culture, women’s empowerment and socio-economic progress.