By Gloria Ikibah
Nigeria and Bangladesh have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with both countries pledging closer cooperation in energy, trade, investment, security and multilateral diplomacy.
The renewed commitment emerged during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Nigeria, His Excellency Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, in Abuja. 
The discussions covered a broad range of issues aimed at deepening relations between the two countries, including cooperation within the United Nations, economic partnerships and plans to enhance diplomatic engagements.
A major highlight of the meeting was the recent election of Bangladesh’s Foreign Minister, Khalilur Rahman, as President of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The Bangladeshi envoy expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s support during the election process and sought continued collaboration on issues of shared interest.
Ambassador Ahmed congratulated Bangladesh on the achievement, describing it as a significant milestone and reaffirming Nigeria’s readiness to support the incoming UNGA President during his tenure.
The two sides also discussed the importance of regular political consultations, exchange visits by senior government officials and the need to conclude several pending bilateral agreements, including the proposed Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation.
During the talks, the Bangladeshi High Commissioner highlighted efforts by his country to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding for the importation of petroleum and gas products from Nigeria.
According to him, Bangladesh is seeking to diversify its energy supply sources and considers Nigeria an important strategic partner in that regard.
The Permanent Secretary assured the envoy that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was working closely with the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources to accelerate discussions and facilitate the conclusion of the agreement.
The meeting also explored opportunities for increased economic cooperation, particularly in sectors targeted under Nigeria’s economic diversification agenda.
Ambassador Ahmed encouraged Bangladeshi investors to take advantage of investment opportunities in Nigeria’s mining, agriculture, pharmaceutical and information technology sectors.
He also expressed Nigeria’s interest in collaborating with Bangladeshi businesses to revive the country’s textile industry, a move officials believe could stimulate industrial growth, create jobs and help address youth unemployment.
On security matters, both countries discussed the need for stronger cooperation in tackling common threats, including terrorism and other transnational security challenges.
Nigeria also used the opportunity to seek Bangladesh’s support for its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2030–2031 term.
At the conclusion of the meeting, both sides agreed to work towards finalising dates for the inaugural session of their bilateral consultation mechanism, which is expected to provide a platform for regular high-level engagements and closer cooperation.
The development underscores growing efforts by Nigeria and Bangladesh to expand diplomatic, economic and security relations as both countries seek stronger partnerships across Asia and Africa.
