Nigeria, Indonesia reaffirms commitment to strategic economic cooperation
Orisekeme Benjamin
Nigeria and Indonesia have taken a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations, as the Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Nigeria, Mr Bambang Suharto, paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to further discussions on economic cooperation, institutional partnerships, and sustainable development.
The high-level meeting was chaired by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, alongside the Minister of State, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr Deborah Odoh, with senior officials from both countries present.
Welcoming the delegation, the Permanent Secretary described the visit as a reflection of the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Indonesia, anchored in mutual respect and shared aspirations for inclusive growth within the Global South.
She noted that Indonesia’s achievements in governance, economic diversification, and public sector innovation offer valuable lessons for Nigeria, adding that the visit provides a timely platform to strengthen institutional collaboration and explore practical development solutions.
In his remarks, Ambassador Suharto expressed gratitude for the warm reception and reaffirmed Indonesia’s dedication to enhancing its longstanding relations with Nigeria.
He highlighted key areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, budget management, economic diversification, and capacity building.
Highlighting ongoing engagements, the Ambassador pointed to successful agricultural cooperation through livestock development initiatives in Sokoto and Kebbi States, as well as expanding partnerships in the pharmaceutical sector, where Indonesian firms are establishing manufacturing facilities in Lagos.
He also outlined long-term plans for cooperation in strategic industries, including the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities for aircraft and maritime assets in Nigeria—an initiative intended to establish the country as a regional hub.
Responding, Minister Bagudu welcomed the Indonesian delegation and praised the growing strength of bilateral ties. He highlighted Nigeria’s interest in learning from Indonesia’s economic transformation into a $1.4 trillion economy, especially as Nigeria progresses with the implementation of its 2026–2030 National Development Plan.
“Indonesia remains a vital partner for Nigeria as we strive for inclusive growth and economic transformation. There is much we can accomplish together through shared knowledge, investment, and innovation,” he stated.
The Minister further emphasised Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting the importance of private-sector involvement and international collaboration in achieving this goal.
Speaking further, Minister of State Dr Uzoka-Anite emphasised the strong cultural and economic ties between both countries, noting that shared values and similarities lay a solid foundation for deeper collaboration across multiple sectors.
She urged increased engagement and improved knowledge sharing to turn existing opportunities into tangible results.
The meeting ended with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation frameworks, expanding investment opportunities, and deepening strategic partnerships for sustainable economic growth.
