Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has reaffirmed his country's commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria. At a reception in Abuja to mark the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Türkiye, Poroy stated that the bilateral relationship between the two countries has continued to expand across various sectors. This expansion is guided by mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation for the benefit of both countries.
The diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Nigeria were established on November 9, 1960, barely a month after Nigeria gained independence. Since then, the two countries have developed their relations in every field based on the principles of mutual respect, friendship, and win-win cooperation. Poroy highlighted that the main motto of the Republic of Türkiye, "peace at home, peace in the world," has been a guiding principle in its engagement with other nations.
The reception, which brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic community, and institutional representatives, celebrated Türkiye's national day and the longstanding partnership between Türkiye and Nigeria. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, in a video message, congratulated Turkish citizens at home and abroad on the 103rd anniversary of the republic. He emphasized that the courage and determination demonstrated by the Turkish people during the country's founding continued to inspire national development.
Erdoğan also highlighted significant developments in Türkiye over the past 24 years, particularly in the defence industry, energy, transportation, and diplomacy. The Turkish president's message was played during the reception, which was attended by various dignitaries. The event showcased the strong bilateral ties between Türkiye and Nigeria, with both countries seeking to expand their cooperation.
The Republic of Türkiye was established on October 29, 1923, following years of war and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire after the First World War. The anniversary commemorates Türkiye's emergence as a modern republic under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk. This year marks 66 years of formal diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Nigeria, underscoring the longstanding ties between the two countries.
Poroy emphasized Türkiye's commitment to peaceful coexistence, describing it as a longstanding principle that guides the country's engagement with other nations. This principle was championed by Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic of Türkiye. The ambassador also highlighted Türkiye's engagement with African countries, including its partnership with the African Union, as part of efforts to strengthen relations with the continent.
The 103rd Republic Day reception in Abuja celebrated the historical significance of October 29, 1923, and the strong bilateral ties between Türkiye and Nigeria. As both countries prepare to mark 66 years of formal diplomatic relations on November 9, they are expected to continue expanding their cooperation in various sectors. The event demonstrated the mutual interest of Türkiye and Nigeria in strengthening their partnership.
Key points
- Türkiye and Nigeria have maintained diplomatic relations for 66 years, with cooperation expanding across various sectors.
- The Republic of Türkiye was established on October 29, 1923, under the leadership of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
- Türkiye and Nigeria are committed to strengthening their bilateral relations, guided by mutual respect, friendship, and shared economic benefits.
