By Gloria Ikibah
Nigeria and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations as both countries seek to expand cooperation in diplomacy, culture and international affairs.
The renewed commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador-designate of the DPRK to Nigeria, Mr Jo Yong Sam, to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja. 
In his welcome address, Ambassador Dunoma congratulated the envoy on his appointment and assured him of the Ministry’s full support in the discharge of his diplomatic responsibilities.
He expressed optimism that the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the DPRK, which dates back to 1976, would continue to flourish.
The Permanent Secretary acknowledged the DPRK’s consistent backing of Nigeria’s candidatures in international organisations and reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful dialogue aimed at promoting lasting peace and stability on the Korean Peninsula.
He also proposed the early revival of cultural exchanges, particularly in film and the creative industry, alongside plans to convene the Fifth Session of the Nigeria–DPRK Joint Commission in Pyongyang on a mutually agreed date.
Ambassador Dunoma further advocated stronger reciprocal cooperation, including the allocation of land for the construction of a permanent Nigerian Embassy in Pyongyang and increased employment opportunities for Nigerians at the DPRK Embassy in Abuja.
He said, “The cordial relations between both countries, established in 1976, would continue to grow from strength to strength.”
In his remarks, Ambassador-designate Jo Yong Sam commended Nigeria’s leadership role on the African continent and its increasing influence in global affairs.
He also praised the country’s economic reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to strengthening relations as both countries prepare to mark 50 years of diplomatic ties.
The envoy further reiterated the DPRK’s support for Nigeria’s aspirations in international organisations, including its bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
He identified visa facilitation as an important area requiring attention to encourage greater official exchanges and stronger people-to-people relations between both countries.
Ambassador Jo also proposed the institutionalisation of congratulatory messages between the leaders of Nigeria and the DPRK during national celebrations and other important occasions as a reflection of the enduring friendship between both nations.
He said, “The DPRK remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations as both countries commemorate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.”
Responding, Ambassador Dunoma assured the Ambassador-designate that all issues raised during the meeting, including visa facilitation and the exchange of official messages between the leadership of both countries, would receive due consideration through the appropriate government channels.
Both sides restated their shared resolve to deepen bilateral cooperation and expand engagement in areas of mutual interest for the benefit of Nigeria and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea.
