Lisbon, 4 July 2022 (TDI): The Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari made a five-day official state visit to Portugal and was received by the Prime Minister of Portugal, Antonio Costa.
President Buhari was received by António Costa, Prime Minister of the Portuguese Republic and hosted to lunch by the Prime Minister. @NGRPresident @NigeriaGov pic.twitter.com/VVJ6MO0poJ
— Geoffrey Onyeama (@GeoffreyOnyeama) July 2, 2022
Nigeria-Portugal relations
Both countries have expressed determination to enhance their relations to a new level with concrete deliverables. The two countries emphasize the need for stronger ties.
Despite the existing cordial relations between the two countries, Buhari highlighted the need for greater collaboration. Thus, after a one-on-one meeting with his Portuguese counterpart.
Many agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were prepared for signing during his State visit to Portugal.
The MoUs included “The Establishment of an Atlantic Research Centre; Air travel: Political Consultations; Diplomatic Training; Cultural Cooperation; Investment Promotion; Chambers of Commerce Cooperation; Women and Child Development; Youth and Sports Development and Digital Economy Cooperation”.
Immediate deliverables of the very successful state visit were the signing of eight important Memoranda of Understanding and Agreements which will see the strengthening of bilateral cooperation in key priority areas.@NGRPresident @NigeriaGov pic.twitter.com/Gg799k0JDb
— Geoffrey Onyeama (@GeoffreyOnyeama) July 2, 2022
Remarks by the Nigerian President
President Buhari commended the Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) signed and therefore, pointed out that it is important in enhancing bilateral ties.
In addition to this, Buhari emphasized the two country’s historical relationship and shared values.
“We share the same democratic values and look to increase and broaden cooperation in various fields at the bilateral and multilateral levels,” said Buhari.
The Nigerian President thanked the Portuguese leader for the role that his government played. That is, during his tenure as President of the European Union especially, in securing EU and International Monetary Union financial support for Africa.
Buhari further expressed his delight that they can count Portugal as a “valued and reliable friend and partner”.
Most importantly, the Nigerian President stated that there will be a ‘Nigeria-Portugal Business and Investment Forum’ with the participation of over 80 representatives. Specifically from Nigerian public and private sector companies, agencies and organizations.
Furthermore, the Mayor of Lisbon, Carlos Moedas received President Buhari and presented him with the Key to the City.
In conclusion, Buhari met with a number of Nigerians residing in Portugal and separately received some Portuguese entrepreneurs doing business in Nigeria as well.
