By Faith Anisiobi, The Sight News
Nigeria and Israel have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations, with both countries exploring stronger cooperation in security, agriculture, healthcare, innovation and technology.
The development emerged during a meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, in Abuja on Tuesday, a statement by the Ministry’s Spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa noted.
During the talks, Odumegwu-Ojukwu stressed the importance of sustained diplomatic dialogue, mutual understanding and high-level engagements in strengthening ties between both nations. She also reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to continue engaging Israel on issues of shared interest and global concern.
The minister noted that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained committed to constructive engagement and dialogue with Israeli leadership as part of efforts to promote mutually beneficial cooperation.
Freeman congratulated the minister on her appointment and delivered a congratulatory message from Israel’s Foreign Minister, alongside an invitation for her to undertake an official visit to Israel.
The Israeli envoy emphasized the longstanding cordial relationship between Nigeria and Israel and called for the revival of high-level official exchanges between both countries.
Both sides also discussed recent developments in the Middle East, including the security situation in Israel and ongoing regional tensions. Freeman briefed the minister on the humanitarian and security implications of the conflict and expressed optimism for peaceful resolutions and stronger regional cooperation.
The meeting further highlighted opportunities for collaboration in food security, medical support, innovation programmes and technical cooperation. Freeman expressed confidence that Israeli technology and expertise could support Nigeria’s agricultural and development priorities.
Discussions equally covered cooperation within multilateral institutions, including the United Nations and the World Health Organisation, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to dialogue and confidence-building measures on regional and global issues.
