President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democracy, freedom and shared prosperity, declaring, “Take it to the bank – I’ll be with you for democracy, freedom, and prosperity,” during a joint press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Ankara, Türkiye.
President Erdoğan announced Türkiye’s readiness to support Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, revealing that both leaders reviewed options for closer cooperation in military training and intelligence sharing. He noted that terrorist groups, particularly across Africa’s Sahel region, continue to threaten regional stability.
“We are ready to share Türkiye’s significant experience in counterterrorism,” Erdoğan said, adding that Ankara views security cooperation with Nigeria as a priority area in the evolving bilateral relationship.
Beyond security, the talks covered trade, energy, investment, education and defence industry collaboration. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to scaling bilateral trade to $5 billion, with Erdoğan highlighting Nigeria’s vast energy potential.
“Türkiye supports investments in Nigeria and welcomes cooperation between Turkish Petroleum Corporation, BOTAS, and Nigerian energy firms,” he said, describing Nigeria as a leading oil and gas producer on the African continent.
Education also featured prominently in the discussions. Erdoğan said Türkiye was pleased to host a growing number of Nigerian students and disclosed that a newly signed agreement would further strengthen educational cooperation between both countries.
The Turkish leader also welcomed engagements between the Nigerian delegation and Türkiye’s top defence firms, signalling deeper collaboration in defence technology and manufacturing.
Earlier on Tuesday, President Tinubu received full state honours on arrival at the Presidential Complex, where his motorcade was escorted by 103 cavalry units, symbolising the 103rd anniversary of the Turkish Republic. President Erdoğan personally received Tinubu at the main entrance, where both leaders stood for the rendition of their national anthems before holding bilateral and inter-delegational talks.
President Tinubu is on an official visit to Türkiye from January 26 to 28, during which both countries are expected to sign multiple cooperation agreements and engage business and defence industry leaders to further strengthen strategic ties.
Türkiye’s Head of Communications, Burhanettin Duran, said the visit would include a comprehensive review of Türkiye–Nigeria relations, exchanges on regional and global issues, and the signing of agreements aimed at deepening cooperation. He added that a roundtable with business leaders and meetings with defence industry representatives would be held on the sidelines of the visit.
