The Turkish government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria as both countries marked 66 years of formal ties. This pledge was made by the Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Mehmet Poroy, at a reception to commemorate the 103rd anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. The anniversary marks a defining moment in Turkish history, recalling that the Republic was proclaimed on October 29, 1923, after a long war of liberation.
The Turkish Republic was founded following years of war and a struggle for liberation after the defeat and dissolution of the Ottoman Empire during the First World War. The guiding philosophy of the modern Turkish state remains unchanged a century later, with the main motto being "peace at home, peace in the world," as put forward by the founder of the Republic and the father of Turkey, Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
Ambassador Poroy spoke on the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Turkey, recalling that Turkey established its Consulate General in Lagos in April 1959 and elevated relations to ambassadorial level on November 9, 1960. Since then, the relationship has continued to wax stronger on all fronts, with both countries developing their relations in every field based on the principles of mutual respect, friendship, and win-win cooperation.
Poroy noted that Turkey's African policy is anchored on its strategic partnership with the African Union since 2008. He added that over 100 Turkish companies are currently operating in Nigeria, demonstrating the strength of the bilateral relations between the two countries. This significant presence of Turkish companies in Nigeria underscores the growing economic ties between the two nations.
The reception featured a video message from President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, who congratulated 86 million Turkish citizens at home, Turkish Cypriots, and millions of Turkish citizens abroad on the anniversary. Erdoğan cited achievements in defence, energy, transportation, and diplomacy, saying Turkey is stronger today than it was yesterday and will be much stronger, more respected, and more influential in every field tomorrow.
Poroy also used the occasion of the national day to announce a cultural event to mark the celebration, which is an exhibition of paintings by his wife, Associate Professor Ayşegül Poroy. The exhibition is scheduled to open at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Art Gallery in Abuja, showcasing the artistic talents of the Turkish community in Nigeria.
The Nigerian government, in a separate congratulatory statement, said that nine agreements signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's state visit to Ankara earlier in January have laid a stronger foundation for cooperation in trade, investment, military cooperation, education, and media. These agreements are expected to further strengthen the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Turkey, fostering greater cooperation and mutual benefit.
Key points
- Turkey and Nigeria have marked 66 years of formal ties, with Turkey pledging to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations.
- The Turkish Republic was founded on October 29, 1923, after a long war of liberation, and its guiding philosophy remains "peace at home, peace in the world."
- Nine agreements were signed during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's state visit to Ankara, laying a stronger foundation for cooperation in trade, investment, military cooperation, education, and media.
