In a bid to foster stronger bilateral relations and deepen economic cooperation, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has accepted an invitation from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to visit Nigeria later in 2025.
Bilateral Talks in Abu Dhabi
The invitation was extended during a bilateral meeting on Wednesday night at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, held on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025, where President Tinubu actively represented Nigeria's stance on global issues such as climate change, water security, and energy transition.
President Tinubu, who arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday, commended the UAE for organizing a successful event and emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development.
Strengthening Economic Cooperation
During their discussions, both leaders highlighted opportunities to bolster investments and economic ties:
- President Tinubu: Shared the progress of his administration’s economic reforms, emphasizing renewed foreign investor confidence and billion-dollar commitments from international oil companies.
“Nigeria is open and ready for more partnerships with the UAE,” he remarked.
- Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to expanding cooperation across diverse sectors and expressed gratitude for Tinubu’s visit.
Delegations in Attendance
Nigerian Delegation:
- Yusuf Tuggar: Minister of Foreign Affairs
- Wale Edun: Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy
- Nuhu Ribadu: National Security Adviser
UAE Delegation:
- Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
- Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs
- Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy: Minister of State for International Cooperation
- Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber: Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology
- Salem Saeed Al Shamsi: UAE Ambassador to Nigeria
Future Prospects
The leaders expressed mutual determination to enhance trade, investment, and sustainable development partnerships. Tinubu's invitation marks a significant step in elevating Nigeria-UAE relations, with Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s anticipated visit signaling stronger ties between the two nations.
President Tinubu also expressed gratitude for the UAE’s warm hospitality, solidifying the foundation for continued collaboration.
