Nigeria, Sweden Renew Commitment to Trade, Innovation, Regional Cooperation

Nigeria and Sweden have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with a focus on trade, innovation, and regional cooperation.
This formed part of discussions when the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, received the Swedish Ambassador to Nigeria, Anna Westerholm, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja on Monday.
During the meeting, Ambassador Westerholm expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s hospitality since assuming office in August 2025, noting the cordial relationship between both countries and Sweden’s readiness to deepen engagement in areas of mutual interest.
She identified trade, investment, and strategic partnerships as key priorities, highlighting Sweden’s interest in supporting Nigeria’s transition in green energy and digital development. According to her, there are strong opportunities for collaboration in digital infrastructure, innovation, and technology.
The envoy also pointed to prospects in the energy sector and the creative industry, particularly music and the broader creative economy. She noted that Nigeria’s global influence in Afrobeats presents opportunities to combine Swedish expertise in music production with Nigeria’s vibrant talent.
Ambassador Westerholm further disclosed that Sweden has strengthened its commercial presence in Nigeria with the establishment of a Swedish Trade Office in Lagos, led by a government-appointed Trade Commissioner. The move, she said, follows a recent visit by the Swedish Crown Princess and underscores Sweden’s commitment to expanding trade and investment ties.
On global and regional issues, the ambassador commended Nigeria’s role in promoting a rules-based international order, particularly its cooperation at the United Nations. She also reiterated Sweden’s commitment to working with Nigeria within international and regional frameworks.
Both sides also reviewed developments in West Africa, including the security situation in the Sahel and evolving dynamics within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). They acknowledged Nigeria’s critical role in advancing regional stability, integration, and dialogue.
In his remarks, Minister Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening democratic institutions and regional cooperation to address security and governance challenges in the region. He emphasised continued engagement with ECOWAS member states and other partners in seeking lasting solutions to challenges in the Sahel and the wider sub-region.
The minister also highlighted progress under the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme, stressing the need for increased private sector participation to fully realise its benefits.
Both countries agreed to sustain high-level engagements and explore new areas of cooperation to further deepen their longstanding relationship.
Meanwhile, Sweden’s State Secretary is expected in Nigeria next week for further high-level talks.
The statement was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.