Nigeria and Zambia are set to deepen their bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, investment, tourism, aviation, and people-to-people exchanges. This development follows the assumption of duty by Nigeria's new High Commissioner to Zambia, Amb. Queen Efe Alexandra Clark-Omeru. She formally commenced her diplomatic assignment after presenting her Letters of Credence to Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema at State House in Lusaka.
During her engagement with President Hichilema, Clark-Omeru conveyed greetings and congratulations from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his re-election and inauguration. She reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two countries. Hichilema emphasized the importance of economic diplomacy in advancing Zambia's development objectives and urged diplomats to promote trade, investment, tourism, and business partnerships between Zambia and their respective countries.
Clark-Omeru highlighted opportunities for expanding economic cooperation between Nigeria and Zambia, citing the growing presence of Nigerian businesses in Zambia. Companies such as Dangote Cement, Access Bank, United Bank for Africa, and Sahara Group are operating in the country, with interests across different sectors. She stressed that stronger engagement with Nigerian businesses would form part of her diplomatic efforts.
A major area identified for increased cooperation is aviation, with Clark-Omeru stressing the need for more convenient and sustainable air links between Nigeria and Zambia. Improved connectivity would facilitate trade, investment, tourism, and the movement of people between the two countries. She plans to engage Air Peace and other Nigerian airline operators on possible options for improving air connectivity.
The High Commissioner also identified the signing of a Bilateral Air Services Agreement as an important framework for expanding cooperation in the aviation sector. This agreement could contribute to increased commercial activity and stronger people-to-people exchanges between Nigeria and Zambia. Clark-Omeru brings extensive diplomatic experience to her new assignment, having served as Nigeria's Consul General for the Littoral and West Regions of Cameroon.
At a reception organised by the Nigerian High Commission in Lusaka, representatives of Nigerian companies, business executives, professionals, and members of the Nigerian community welcomed the new envoy. The President of the Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation, Zambia chapter, Apostle Barrister Joel Akobaro Joseph, said Nigerians living in the country had a responsibility to uphold the image and values of Nigeria.
With the presentation of her Letters of Credence, Clark-Omeru has formally assumed responsibility for representing Nigeria in Zambia. The expansion of economic and diplomatic ties is expected to feature prominently during her tenure. Her appointment comes at a time when Zambia is placing considerable emphasis on economic diplomacy and investment partnerships, providing an opportunity for Nigeria to pursue a more commercially focused relationship with Zambia.
Key points
- Nigeria and Zambia to strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on trade, investment, tourism, and aviation.
- Improved air connectivity between Nigeria and Zambia to facilitate trade, investment, and people-to-people exchanges.
- Nigeria's new High Commissioner to Zambia, Amb. Queen Efe Alexandra Clark-Omeru, to promote economic cooperation and strengthen relations between the two countries.
