NESG Summit: MIKTA, Nigeria Partnering For Peace, Development

Nigeria has been recognised as a country that is fast- rising on the global stage and its vibrant young population, economic dynamism, and growing diplomatic voice, have positioned the country to play a vital role in shaping solutions to global challenges—from peacebuilding to innovation and sustainable development.

Essentially these variables have endeared Nigeria to the hearts of multiple countries that have indicated interest to partner with the country for peace and development around the world, a role Nigeria has played for the greater part of its 65 years as an independent country.

It was on this premise that the Ambassadors of the MIKTA countries—Mexico, Indonesia, the Republic of Korea, Türkiye, and Australia—recognize Nigeria’s importance now and in the future and are preparing to deepen relations with Nigeria ahead  of the 31st  Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG)  scheduled for October 8, 2025  in Abuja.

In line with their commitments, MIKTA Ambassadors envisage that this event will bring Nigerian stakeholders and MIKTA representatives together to share experience and perspectives to build practical, lasting solutions for a more peaceful, inclusive, and sustainable world.

“We are sure it will be another landmark step in the partnership between Nigeria and MIKTA. Our countries may be far apart on the map, but we are close in purpose. We believe in Nigeria’s future, and we’re committed to working together to help shape it,” the envoys noted.

The envoys represented by the Chargé d’Affairs  of the Republic of Korea (2025 MIKTA Chair) the Ambassador of Mexico, the Ambassadors-designate of Indonesia, and Türkiye, and the High Commissioner of Australia to Nigeria issued a resounding joint statement about their intentions to  engage Nigeria in critical sectors.

“MIKTA is a cross-regional group of proactive, inclusive, democratic middle powers committed to practical cooperation and multilateralism. We know we share these key values with Nigeria. That’s why we are deepening our engagement here,’’ the envoys said.

In 2025, under Korea’s Chairmanship, MIKTA is focusing on three areas highly relevant to Nigeria: peacebuilding, youth empowerment, and sustainable development in line with Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, which marks its 25th anniversary this year.

“Nigeria has long contributed to regional and global peace efforts—from ECOWAS missions to local conflict resolution. MIKTA members bring complementary experience for global peace. We have championed inclusive, community-driven initiatives and led the push for implementation of the UN Security Council.

“We remain committed to the meaningful inclusion of women in peace processes, recognizing that sustainable development cannot be achieved without gender equality. Alongside Nigeria, we have supported UN peacekeeping efforts through various forms of engagement.

“The Republic of Korea, MIKTA chair in 2025, supports the UN Peacebuilding Fund projects in conflict zones. As the UN turns 80 this year, we are reminded that meaningful global progress depends not just on power, but on partnerships like ours,” the group noted.

Nigeria’s drive to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) aligns closely with MIKTA’s agenda, especially in energy access, agriculture, and urban infrastructure just as MIKTA countries have developed solar energy, smart agriculture, and maternal health programs in Nigeria already.

The MIKTA have deployed enormous efforts and resources and they are poised to bring green technology and smart city expertise to deliver practical results where they are most needed.  Nigeria has the opportunity to transform its economy through green technology and the intervention of the MIKTA will boost the potential of the country in this critical sector.

Investing in women and girls remains one crucial area for the group of nations as they move to mobilize resources  to empower all women and girls, as well as extending  a helping hand to  those living in poverty,  which will lead to a more inclusive and equitable society.  Doing so not only creates jobs and opportunities but also accelerates progress towards gender equality.

Youth engagement is central to this effort. With over 60% of Nigerians under the age of 25, empowering young people is not only an opportunity but a necessity.

MIKTA countries have long invested in youth leadership, digital skills, and entrepreneurship. In July 2025, the MIKTA Youth Dialogue was held in Seoul, bringing together young voices to shape ideas on peace, AI, and inclusive growth — building momentum for future collaboration and innovation.

The intervention of the MITKA  countries are as expansive as they are critical to  boost investment in sectors  that will build the capacity and talents of the Nigerian youth and help women and girls build their vision and realize their  dreams.