The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela following a high-level engagement in Abuja.
This assurance was given during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, Alberto Castellar Padilla, held on Friday, April 24, 2026.
Discussions at the meeting centred on preparations for the second session of the Nigeria–Venezuela Joint Commission, initially scheduled for June 2026. Both sides reviewed progress made so far and acknowledged certain administrative developments in their respective countries that may affect the timing of the session.
In view of this, the two countries mutually agreed to reschedule the Joint Commission to a later date to allow for more comprehensive preparations and ensure a productive outcome, rather than proceeding under constrained conditions.
Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong diplomatic relations with Venezuela and expressed support for the country’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms. He also welcomed recent positive developments in Venezuela’s economy, particularly the easing of sanctions on key financial institutions, noting that such progress could further enhance bilateral cooperation.
Both countries emphasized the importance of the Joint Commission as a key platform for expanding collaboration in critical sectors, including agriculture, oil and gas, energy, mining, manufacturing, and information and communication technology.
To strengthen preparations, Nigeria and Venezuela agreed to establish a joint technical committee to review existing agreements, update outdated frameworks, and coordinate necessary documentation ahead of the rescheduled meeting. A new date will be communicated through official diplomatic channels once consultations are concluded.
The two nations reiterated their commitment to deepening their longstanding partnership, promoting South-South cooperation, and addressing shared global challenges through sustained diplomatic engagement.
This was contained in a statement Signed by
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.