State Visit to Focus on Cooperation in Security, Education, Innovation, and Trade
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to depart Abuja on Monday, January 26, 2026, for a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye. This visit is part of efforts further to strengthen the cordial relationship between Nigeria and Turkey and explore new areas of collaboration in critical sectors, including security, education, social development, innovation, and aviation.
The visit comes on the heels of a successful official visit by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to Nigeria in October 2021, where both countries discussed expanding cooperation. This time, President Tinubu will engage in strategic political and diplomatic discussions aimed at solidifying shared interests and values, particularly in finance, communication, trade, and investment.
Key Areas of Focus During the Visit:
- Security Cooperation: Strengthening mutual efforts to combat terrorism and enhance security frameworks.
- Education and Social Development: Exploring opportunities for educational exchanges, development aid, and collaboration in social programs.
- Innovation and Aviation: Advancing cooperation in the fields of technology and aviation, focusing on innovation in these rapidly growing sectors.
- Trade and Investment: Promoting trade relations and creating more investment opportunities for businesses from both countries.
Expected Outcomes:
- Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) will be signed covering scientific research, energy, military cooperation, technical assistance, and media & communications.
- Bilateral Business Forum: A key highlight will be the business forum where investors from both countries will come together to explore mutual opportunities.
Members of the President’s Delegation:
The President will be accompanied by a high-powered entourage, including:
- Minister of Foreign Affairs: Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar
- Attorney General & Minister of Justice: Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN
- Minister of Defence: General Christopher Musa (rtd)
- Chairman, House Committee on Defence: Hon. Jimi Benson
- Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development: Hajiya Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim
- Minister of Interior: Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo
- Minister of Culture and Creative Economy: Hannatu Musawa
- National Security Adviser: Malam Nuhu Ribadu
- Director-General, National Intelligence Agency: Ambassador Mohammed Mohammed
President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after completing the visit, which is anticipated to foster deeper ties between the two nations.
This visit underscores Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to build strategic partnerships with global players, enhancing its role on the international stage.
