United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has accepted an invitation from Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, to visit the country later this year, according to a statement from the Presidency.
The invitation was extended during bilateral talks between the two leaders on Wednesday, held on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week 2025. The event serves as a platform for global dialogue on sustainable development and solutions to challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and energy crises.
President Tinubu, who arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday as Sheikh Al Nahyan’s guest, delivered Nigeria’s position on climate action earlier on Wednesday. He congratulated the UAE President on hosting a successful event and emphasized the importance of collaboration.
During their discussions, Sheikh Al Nahyan expressed gratitude for President Tinubu’s visit and reiterated the UAE’s commitment to deepening economic ties with Nigeria.
Focus on Economic Cooperation and Investment
Both leaders explored opportunities for bolstering economic cooperation, with President Tinubu highlighting Nigeria’s recent economic reforms. He noted that these reforms have spurred economic stability and attracted significant foreign investments, including billion-dollar commitments from multinational oil companies. Tinubu urged the UAE to partner with Nigeria in fostering economic growth.
Sheikh Al Nahyan praised Nigeria’s reform efforts and expressed interest in enhancing bilateral relations.
High-Level Delegations
President Tinubu was accompanied by key officials, including:
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar
Minister of Finance, Wale Edun
National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu
The UAE delegation included high-ranking officials such as:
Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs
H.H. Sheikh Zayed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan
Reem bint Ebrahim Al Hashimy, Minister of State for International Cooperation
Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology
Salem Saeed Al Shamsi, UAE Ambassador to Nigeria
The meeting, held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, further solidified the growing partnership between the two nations.
President Tinubu expressed his appreciation for the warm reception accorded to him and his delegation, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation between Nigeria and the UAE.
