Nigeria and the Republic of Türkiye have taken a major step toward strengthening economic and strategic partnership, with Presidents Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan agreeing to pursue a $5 billion annual trade volume — more than double current commercial exchanges between the two nations.
The ambitious goal was sealed during President Tinubu’s state visit to Ankara, where both leaders reaffirmed a shared vision of deepening cooperation in trade, investment, energy, defence and infrastructure — sectors that can meaningfully move Nigeria forward by creating jobs, attracting capital and expanding market access for local businesses.
Information Nigeria
From $2 Billion Today to $5 Billion Tomorrow
Presently, bilateral trade stands at roughly $2 billion, with Türkiye exporting machinery, aircraft, iron and steel, and chemical products to Nigeria, while Nigeria’s exports — including crude oil and agricultural goods — flow to the Turkish market.
President Erdoğan highlighted the economic opportunities ahead, noting that discussions are already underway to realise the new target and to attract Turkish investment into key Nigerian sectors.
A Joint Economy and Trade Committee was agreed upon to unlock investment flows, remove trade barriers and facilitate stronger private sector engagement — a move that experts say can translate into greater employment opportunities and technology transfer for Nigerian businesses.
Nine Agreements Signed, Broader Cooperation Deepened
In addition to the trade roadmap, both countries signed nine bilateral agreements spanning defence cooperation, diaspora policy, education, media, and quality standards — signalling a multi-dimensional partnership that goes beyond trade figures to touch people’s lives.
President Tinubu described the talks as practical, forward-looking and rooted in mutual respect, with an emphasis on opportunity for citizens and economic diversification for Nigeria.
Security Support & Defence Collaboration
Alongside economic goals, Türkiye reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency, agreeing to strengthen military training, intelligence sharing and security cooperation — underscoring that peace and economic progress go hand in hand.
What This Means for Nigerians
For everyday Nigerians, this expanded partnership could mean:
More jobs through new Turkish investments in infrastructure, energy and manufacturing.
Better market access for Nigerian exports across Europe, Asia and Africa via Turkish trade networks.
Foreign capital inflows that support local enterprise growth and micro-business opportunities.
Enhanced security cooperation to protect communities and enable safer economic activity.
Looking Ahead
As Nigeria charts its course toward economic diversification and global competitiveness, the Turkey engagement signals a renewed diplomatic and economic momentum that could help anchor the country’s long-term growth aspirations.
