By Joy Omagha Idam
Nigeria and Tunisia have taken fresh steps to strengthen their longstanding bilateral relationship, with both countries expressing commitment to deeper diplomatic engagement, regional security cooperation and sustainable development initiatives.
The renewed commitment emerged during a bilateral meeting between Nigeria’s Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Tunisia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration and Tunisians Abroad, H.E. Mohamed Ali Nafti, on the sidelines of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union.
The high-level meeting focused on broadening political and diplomatic relations through increased engagement between both nations. Central to the discussions was the proposal to establish exchange programmes for young diplomats and newly appointed ambassadors, a move aimed at strengthening institutional ties, promoting knowledge-sharing and fostering a new generation of diplomatic cooperation.
The ministers also exchanged views on the growing security challenges confronting parts of Africa, particularly insurgency and related threats. They underscored the importance of closer collaboration, information sharing and coordinated efforts in tackling insecurity, recognising that regional peace and stability remain essential for economic growth and continental integration.
Beyond security, both countries identified water, food and energy security as critical areas requiring sustained partnership. They agreed that cooperation in these sectors would not only improve national resilience but also contribute significantly to achieving sustainable development goals and enhancing the wellbeing of citizens in both Nigeria and Tunisia.
The meeting reflected the shared determination of Abuja and Tunis to expand cooperation beyond traditional diplomacy by pursuing practical partnerships capable of addressing common challenges and unlocking new opportunities for development across the African continent.
The bilateral engagement formed part of a series of diplomatic consultations taking place during the African Union Executive Council meeting, where member states continue to explore collective strategies for strengthening continental integration, peace, security and economic transformation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through its Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the discussions reaffirmed the commitment of both governments to building stronger diplomatic relations and promoting mutually beneficial cooperation.