Türkiye is sharpening its focus on Nigeria, driven by shared challenges and a desire for deeper collaboration in security and economic development. Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, emphasized in an interview that the two nations face similar threats from terrorism, making cooperation in counterterrorism strategies a priority.
Poroy highlighted Türkiye’s experience in combating a range of terrorist groups over the years, experience it is now ready to share with Nigeria. “What makes Nigeria very special from our perspective is that our countries face similar challenges. We have fought various terrorist organisations for years and gained significant experience and success. Nigeria is also fighting several terrorist organisations, primarily Boko Haram and ISWAP,” he said.
The ambassador explained that Nigeria’s success against terrorism would have ripple effects for stability across West Africa and the continent as a whole. He also pointed out that Türkiye’s own advancements in the defence industry have been key in countering insecurity within its borders and the region, and that similar collaboration could strengthen Nigeria’s capabilities.
Türkiye is not only offering military support and equipment but is also exploring joint local production initiatives in Nigeria. Poroy said, “We are working with our Nigerian counterparts to deepen military cooperation. In addition to providing military equipment and critical systems, our companies also work with Nigerian authorities for joint local production of equipment in Nigeria.”
Economic considerations also make Nigeria a priority. As the largest economy in West Africa and Africa’s fourth-largest overall, Nigeria’s population of over 230 million offers immense potential for trade and investment. “As the biggest country in the continent, Türkiye sees Nigeria as an important strategic partner. Today, we continue to view Nigeria as an important, strategic partner,” Poroy stressed.
The ambassador also traced the historical ties between the two nations, noting that Türkiye’s engagement with Nigeria dates back to the 16th century during interactions between the Ottoman Empire and the Kanem-Bornu Empire. The establishment of Türkiye’s embassy in Nigeria on November 9, 1960, shortly after the country gained independence, reflected this long-standing commitment.
This renewed focus comes after recent high-level visits, including Nigerian President Bola Tinubu’s trip to Türkiye, which reinforced mutual commitments to both security cooperation and economic partnership. Türkiye’s strategic interest in Nigeria combines historical ties, security collaboration, and economic opportunities, underscoring the importance of this growing partnership.
