By Ndudirim Sylvia Iloka
Nigeria and Tunisia have signalled a renewed push to expand cooperation across key sectors, with both countries agreeing to strengthen economic, educational, technological and security partnerships.
The commitment emerged during a meeting in Abuja between Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and Tunisia’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mohsen Antit.
During the talks, Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to deepen relations with Tunisia, stressing the importance of closer collaboration in trade, investment, education, defence, technology and cultural exchanges.
Antit, who conveyed greetings from the Tunisian government, called for the revival of the Nigeria-Tunisia Joint Commission, describing it as a vital platform for expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest. He noted that the commission could help unlock new opportunities for economic growth and strengthen existing diplomatic ties.
Responding, the minister welcomed the proposal and said the commission would provide a practical framework for advancing commercial relations, attracting investment and creating partnerships between businesses in both countries. She also highlighted the potential for cooperation in tourism and entrepreneurship development.
A major aspect of the discussions focused on improving connectivity between the two nations. The Tunisian envoy revealed plans for air links connecting Tunis, Cotonou and Abuja, a move expected to ease travel and encourage business activities.
The meeting also examined pending agreements covering defence collaboration, diplomatic visa exemptions and other bilateral initiatives. Antit extended an invitation to the Nigerian foreign minister to visit Tunisia and explore opportunities within the country’s expanding tourism industry.
Education and technology featured prominently in the talks. The ambassador disclosed that Tunisia offers six fully funded scholarships annually to Nigerian students, but observed that many of the slots remain unfilled due to limited awareness. He also proposed the establishment of drone manufacturing facilities in Bauchi State to advance industrial and technological cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu pledged to work with relevant government agencies, including the education ministry, to increase awareness of the scholarship opportunities and encourage greater participation by Nigerian students.
On regional security, the Nigerian minister sought insights into Tunisia’s efforts to tackle the flow of illicit weapons from neighbouring Libya. Antit explained that Tunisia employs a layered border surveillance system with multiple security checkpoints designed to curb arms trafficking and strengthen national security.
Both countries concluded the meeting by reaffirming their commitment to closer relations through the early reconvening of the Joint Commission and the completion of pending agreements covering defence, education, technology transfer, livestock development, legal cooperation, business promotion and taxation matters.
The renewed engagement signals a fresh chapter in Nigeria-Tunisia relations as both nations seek to expand economic opportunities and strengthen cooperation on regional security challenges.
