Tinubu Returns To Abuja After Türkiye State Visit

President Bola Tinubu, on Saturday night, returned to Abuja after a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye, arriving at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at about 8:55pm local time.

President Tinubu was received on arrival in Abuja by senior government officials.

The visit, which featured high-level diplomatic, economic and security engagements, culminated in the signing of multiple agreements aimed at deepening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Türkiye, including a renewed trade push targeting a $5 billion trade volume.

President Tinubu had departed Abuja on Monday, January 26, for the state visit, following an invitation by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with discussions focused on trade, investment, security, energy, education and defence cooperation.

During the visit, Nigeria and Türkiye agreed to establish a Joint Economy and Trade Committee to drive the expansion of trade relations and support Turkish investments in Nigeria, as both countries reaffirmed commitment to achieving a $5 billion trade target.

At a joint press briefing in Ankara, President Erdogan praised President Tinubu’s determination to attract foreign investment, noting that the presence of several Nigerian ministers and top government officials underscored Nigeria’s seriousness in strengthening economic ties.

President Erdogan also pledged Türkiye’s support for Nigeria in the areas of military training and intelligence cooperation, particularly in the fight against terrorism within Nigeria and the wider Sahel region, citing Türkiye’s experience in counter-insurgency operations.

President Tinubu, in his remarks during the visit, expressed appreciation to Türkiye for its openness and willingness to collaborate with Nigeria in promoting freedom, stability and shared prosperity globally. He emphasised the importance of building an inclusive economy that accommodates vulnerable populations and removes barriers to trade and enterprise.

The Nigerian leader further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace and stability in Africa, stressing that the country would continue to play its role despite security challenges in the region.

At the conclusion of the bilateral meetings, officials of both countries exchanged nine agreements covering diaspora policy, defence cooperation, the establishment, among others.