Nigeria is seeking to unlock new opportunities in technology, innovation and entrepreneurship through a strengthened partnership with Israel, as both countries reaffirm broader bilateral cooperation.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, said Nigeria is prioritising stronger collaboration between local startups and Israeli technology firms to drive innovation and economic growth.
She made this known in Abuja during a valedictory visit by the outgoing Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, where both sides reiterated their commitment to deepening ties across key sectors.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasised that beyond security cooperation, Nigeria is keen on leveraging Israel’s global reputation in innovation to support its growing tech ecosystem. She also highlighted opportunities in water management and agricultural productivity.
“We are ready to expand collaboration… particularly in areas that support development, including technology and capacity building,” she said.
The minister noted that enhanced cooperation in intelligence sharing, counter-terrorism and border security remains critical, but stressed that economic and technological partnerships will play a defining role in future relations.
Freeman, in his remarks, described Nigeria as an “amazing country” and underscored the importance of sustained engagement in unlocking mutual benefits.
He reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to supporting Nigeria across innovation, agriculture, healthcare, education and security, while expressing confidence in the growth of bilateral trade.
According to him, trade between both nations, currently valued at about $200 million annually, has significant potential for expansion.
The meeting signals a strategic shift towards innovation-led diplomacy, with both countries positioning technology and enterprise development as central pillars of their evolving partnership.
