Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has called for stronger economic, cultural, and strategic collaboration between Africa and Latin America. Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum in Bogotá, Tuggar described the gathering as a pivotal platform for advancing dialogue and partnership among nations of the Global South.
In a statement shared by his media aide, Alkasim Abdulkadir, Tuggar praised Colombian President Gustavo Petro for convening the forum, highlighting its importance amid rising global uncertainty marked by conflicts and shifting geopolitical landscapes. “We live in extraordinary times,” the minister said, noting that crises far from developing nations still carry tangible consequences for them. He urged participating countries to take collective responsibility in shaping outcomes that reduce global risks and foster shared stability.
Tuggar stressed that Africa and Latin America must work together to redefine their role in a rapidly changing international order, which he described as increasingly fragmented and unequal. He called for a unified voice among Global South nations to advocate for fairer systems and more effective partnerships.
Highlighting Nigeria’s priorities, Tuggar identified key areas for cooperation, including education, energy, agriculture, solid minerals, and technology. He also reaffirmed Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to international engagement, pointing to the country’s Technical Aid Corps programme, which has deployed skilled professionals to Caribbean nations since 1987.
According to the minister, Nigeria is ready to expand collaboration with CELAC countries across trade, health, culture, and climate resilience. The CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum, held from March 20 to 21, 2026, brought together leaders and representatives from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa to deepen political, economic, and cultural cooperation.
