Nigeria calls for stronger bilateral relations with Namibia

 

By: Hertha Ekandjo

Nigeria is looking to strengthen bilateral relations with Namibia particularly in the areas of agriculture, oil and gas, fisheries, investment and banking.

Nigerian ambassador, Bolaji Akinremi, revealed this earlier today during a meeting with the Ministry of International Relations, in Windhoek.

Akinremi is accompanied by a delegation of senior Nigerian officials who are attending the fifth session of the Namibia-Nigeria Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation meeting.

The ambassador emphasized his expectations for fruitful discussions which will explore new avenues for collaboration in agribusiness-particularly in cassava and plantation projects, fisheries, small and medium enterprises (SMEs), banking, investment promotion and protection, avoidance of double taxation, as well as consular matters and treatment of the two nations’ citizens.

The two-day engagement will extend to key sectors such as solid minerals exploration and energy through joint ventures in oil exploration in Walvis Bay and uranium mining, as well as trade facilitation in salt, meat, cement production, textiles and garments.

Akinremi said tourism, tertiary and specialized education-including the renowned Nigerian Technical Aid Corps sports and youth development, training against drug trafficking, and cooperation between the two countries’ Chambers of Commerce and Industry will also be at the forefront of their discussions.

“As we embark on these deliberations, I urge us all to engage in open, structured, and forward-looking discussions, not just for the mutual benefits of Nigeria and Namibia but for the prosperity of our respective regions, the African continent, and the entire global system,” he expressed.

The fifth session of the Nigeria-Namibia Joint Commission of Cooperation presents a strategic opportunity to enhance bilateral relations by leveraging Nigeria’s large population, abundant natural resources, strategic position, and ongoing reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Moreover, he stressed that despite existing agreements, trade between Nigeria and Namibia remains low.

In 2022, Nigeria exported US$ 433 million worth of goods to Namibia, while Namibia’s exports to Nigeria were valued at US$12.6 million.

The ambassador noted both nations can work towards diversifying their trade portfolios to include a broader range of goods and services.

He encouraged investments in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and services that can stimulate economic growth and create employment opportunities in both countries.

He further dwelled in oil and gas developments noting that Namibia has expressed interest in collaborating with Nigeria in the oil and gas sector. This includes potential partnerships in exploration, production, and refining activities.

When it comes to energy, the ambassador said both countries can explore ventures in renewable energy projects, leveraging Nigeria’s ongoing energy reforms to promote sustainable development.