Nigeria and Italy have reiterated their determination to enhance their bilateral relationship, particularly in addressing issues related to irregular migration, security concerns, counter-terrorism, and advancing economic collaboration.
This commitment was highlighted by the Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during a courtesy visit from the Italian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Roberto Mengoni, held in Abuja on Monday.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu labeled Italy as one of Nigeria’s pivotal strategic allies in Europe, pointing out that although the two nations have enjoyed diplomatic relations for over sixty years, they still lack a formal Nigeria-Italy Bi- National Commission. She advocated for the establishment of such a commission to enhance structured cooperation.
According to her, continuous high-level diplomatic discussions between Nigeria and Italy have underscored common priorities in sustainable development, food security, climate initiatives, and economic progress. She mentioned that current dialogues signify a shared commitment to tackle regional and global challenges like climate change, migration, and various security threats.
The minister emphasized the need for increased cooperation in fighting irregular migration, human trafficking, and transnational criminal activities, alongside requesting greater Italian participation in Nigeria’s economic reform strategies. Renewable energy, agribusiness, infrastructure development, and industrial advancement were identified as vital sectors for bolstered collaboration.
She further called for technical assistance from Italy to support Nigeria’s industrial expansion and emphasized the need for improvements in visa processing procedures to facilitate easier movement, enhance trade, and strengthen interpersonal relations between the two countries.
Additionally, Odumegwu-Ojukwu requested better trade facilitation systems to provide Nigerian agricultural and manufactured goods with enhanced access to the Italian market, thereby lowering transit expenses and improving supply chain efficiency.
Identifying migration as both a challenge and an opportunity, she clarified that Nigeria and Italy are collaboratively working to mitigate irregular migration while promoting legal pathways. This includes cooperation in repatriation agreements, voluntary return programs, reintegration projects, and initiatives aimed at dismantling human trafficking networks.
Expressing concern for the safety and future of Nigeria’s large youth population, she noted that initiatives targeting youth unemployment, skills training, and counter-radicalization are of paramount importance.
Ambassador Mengoni, during his remarks, reaffirmed Italy’s intention to deepen its relationship with Nigeria, characterizing the country as crucial to Italy’s strategy for cooperation in Africa. He stated that his mission would prioritize enhancing diplomatic and business relations for mutual benefit.
"We possess the momentum to engage with Nigeria on a deeper level. Italy is committed to partnership rather than imposition," Mengoni conveyed.
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