President Bola Tinubu says Nigeria and Türkiye have agreed to fast-track cooperation in trade, energy and defence to boost jobs, investment and shared prosperity.

The president disclosed this on Tuesday via his official X handle during his ongoing state visit to Türkiye.

Mr Tinubu said discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan focused on deepening bilateral relations and delivering tangible economic benefits for citizens of both countries. He said both leaders agreed on the need to expand trade volumes and remove structural barriers limiting business growth between Nigeria and Türkiye.

“We are creating a clear pathway to a $5 billion trade volume between Nigeria and Türkiye,” Mr Tinubu stated.

The president described the talks as practical and forward-looking, driven by mutual interests and shared regional and global responsibilities.

Mr Tinubu announced the establishment of a Joint Economy and Trade Committee to drive the implementation of agreements and attract fresh investments, noting that it “will unlock new flows of capital”.

He said the committee would also support industrial growth, technology transfer, and stronger private-sector participation.

Mr Tinubu welcomed Mr Erdoğan’s acknowledgement of Nigeria’s ongoing reforms, especially in the energy and investment sectors. He said the renewed confidence reflected Nigeria’s commitment to transparency, stability and sustainable economic growth.

“We are determined to build an economy that works for everyone, including the most vulnerable,” Mr Tinubu added.

Regarding regional security, Mr Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s responsibility to promote peace and stability across Africa.

He said Türkiye’s expertise in counter-terrorism and defence cooperation would strengthen collective responses to emerging security threats.

Mr Tinubu said nine bilateral agreements were exchanged at the end of the meetings between the two leaders. The agreements cover defence, education, media cooperation, diaspora policy, trade facilitation, social development and institutional collaboration.

“Nigeria remains open for serious partnership. Open to trade without barriers, ideas, skills and investment that create value and shared prosperity,” he said.

Mr Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to inclusive growth, peaceful coexistence and active global engagement.

“We are building an inclusive economy. We are strengthening peace. Nigeria will continue to engage the world with confidence and clarity,” Mr Tinubu said. 

(NAN)