Raphael Oni
Nigeria and Italy have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with both countries pledging deeper cooperation in trade, security, and sustainable development.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known when the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Roberto Mengoni, paid her a courtesy visit at her office. She noted that ongoing engagements between both nations continue to reflect shared interests in sustainable development, food security, and economic cooperation.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu urged sustained joint efforts in combating illegal migration, human trafficking, and transnational crime, while inviting deeper Italian participation in Nigeria’s economic reform agenda, particularly in renewable energy, agribusiness, and infrastructure. She also called for Italy’s technical support in Nigeria’s industrialization drive, stressing that ease of mobility remains a key catalyst for trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange.
She highlighted joint initiatives targeting human trafficking networks, with a focus on protecting vulnerable populations, and noted programs designed to create economic opportunities in Nigeria to reduce migration pressures, including vocational training and small business development in high-migration regions.
Earlier, Ambassador Mengoni said Italy is committed to improving bilateral relations with Nigeria, describing it as a strategic partner in Africa. He explained that since his recent arrival in Nigeria, he has been determined to maximize the country’s strategic position on the continent for mutual benefit.
