Nigeria’s historic ties with the State of Kuwait is witnessing new dimensions in diverse developmental fields as Kuwaiti leaders focus on making the country a global financial hub to boost bilateral ties with Nigeria and other countries in diverse fields.
The need to focus the relations on people-centered development was the crux of the speech of the Charge d’ Affairs of the State of Kuwait to Nigeria, Mr Abdulrahman Merdhi Alazmi, during the occasion to mark the 63rd Independence anniversary of Kuwait and the 33rd anniversary of liberation of Kuwait, which was held in Abuja.
In his speech, during the event attended by a large number of diplomats and government officials, the Kuwaiti envoy said the historical ties between the State of Kuwait and Nigeria date back to the 1960s, bearing witness to a rich legacy of cooperation and friendship.
“The establishment of Al-Sabah School, now known as Sardauna Memorial College, in Kaduna State, during that era underscored the depth of our historical relations, and this before the beginning of the diplomatic relations that opened new horizons and strengthened collaborative efforts across various fields with the two friendly nations,” he said.
The occasion embodies and affirms the spirit of belonging, solidarity, persistence and freedom for the Kuwaiti homeland and its citizens as well as full adherence to preserving the sovereignty of the State of Kuwait under the then leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al- Sabah.
“I wish to emphasize that since its inception, my country has been defined by a democratic system and even prior to independence, deeply rooted on popular participation in decision-making processes, with a clear and explicit commitment by the political leadership in the State of Kuwait. This legacy is a source of great pride and appreciation for every Kuwaiti citizen,” the envoy said.
He noted that since its independence in 1961, his country has followed a foreign policy characterized by the principles of balance, moderation and charity in its diplomatic relations with all nations, adding that Kuwait has taken openness and communication as a path, friendship and peace as an approach, and human development and economic prosperity for its people as a goal and purpose.
The diplomatic relations of Kuwait has also succeeded in establishing the strategic direction based on rejecting differences and discrimination, supporting humanitarian issues and the rights of vulnerable peoples, and rejecting all forms of violence and extremism.
The State of Kuwait, through its Developmental Vision under the slogan ‘New Kuwait’ has endeavoured to monitor and align itself with global economic and financial indicators. This effort aims to position Kuwait as a hub of finance, commerce, and culture, fostering dynamic interactions with its regional and international counterparts.
To a certain extent, Kuwaiti foreign policy is integrated into this expanded development process guided by diplomatic initiatives rooted in a legacy of relief and humanitarian efforts established by previous generations.
In 1961, Kuwait pioneered the establishment of the First development institution in the Middle East, the ‘Kuwait Fund,’ which has provided over a thousand development loans benefitting more than 107 countries worldwide, including 53 countries in Africa.
According to the Charge’d’ Affairs these loans have surpassed a total value of 23 billion US dollars.
The State of Kuwait has also consistently extended humanitarian aid support to alleviate the suffering of those in need. This dedication to humanitarian work has become a defining characteristic of Kuwait’s identity, earning international recognition across various spheres. In 2014, the United Nations honoured Kuwait by designating it as a “Centre For Humanitarian Work” the envoy noted.
During the celebration, Nigeria’s Minister for Youth Development, Dr Jamila Bio Ibrahim in her remarks said Nigeria and Kuwait share a long history of friendly relations, which have been characterized by mutual respect, cooperation, and solidarity.
She said “Our bilateral relations have continued to grow stronger over the years, encompassing various sectors including trade, oil and gas, agriculture and education.
“One of the most important aspects of our bilateral relations is the impact it has on our youth, with the Sheikh Al-Sabah School, which was built in Kaduna State at that time and went on to educate many youth that became prominent individuals in Nigeria, testified to the depth of these historical relations.
“As we look to the future, it is essential to recognize the significant role that our youth play in shaping our countries destinies. Therefore, strengthening our bilateral relations with Kuwait presents a unique opportunity to empower our youth and create a better future for them.
“The exchange of ideas, knowledge, and experiences between our two countries can greatly benefit our youth. Through educational exchanges, cultural programmes, and youth exchanges, we can broaden the horizons of our young people and equip them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s globalized world.”
In her goodwill message, the Deputy Governor of Kaduna State Dr. Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe said Kuwait’s struggles and how it overcame its challenges serve as testaments to the strength of national identity and unwavering commitment to sovereignty and democracy.
