Nigeria and Turkey have agreed to significantly strengthen their economic relationship, setting a new target of $5 billion in annual trade as both countries seek deeper cooperation in commerce, security, and infrastructure.
The agreement was reached during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official visit to Ankara in January 2026, marking a new phase in bilateral relations.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said Nigeria remains a key partner for Turkey in Africa, noting that existing trade volumes can be expanded with the right policies and institutional support. Both leaders emphasized that the goal is achievable through sustained engagement between governments and the private sector.
As part of the visit, the two countries agreed to strengthen coordination through a Joint Economic and Trade Committee, which will focus on easing trade barriers, improving market access, and encouraging business-to-business partnerships. Additional agreements were also signed to support cooperation in areas such as education, media, diaspora engagement, and halal trade standards.
Economic exchanges between Nigeria and Turkey currently include machinery, steel products, aircraft, and industrial equipment from Turkey, while Nigeria exports crude oil and agricultural products. Officials from both sides believe expanding industrial production, investment, and value added trade will be critical to reaching the new target.
Beyond trade, the partnership also covers defence and infrastructure development, reflecting shared interests in security cooperation, military training, and technology exchange. Nigeria has previously acquired Turkish defence equipment, and the new agreements are expected to deepen collaboration in this area.
President Tinubu described the partnership as one focused on long-term growth, job creation, and mutual benefit. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to creating a more business-friendly environment to attract foreign investment and diversify the country’s economic relationships.
If achieved, the $5 billion trade goal would represent a major boost to Nigeria–Turkey relations and support Nigeria’s broader strategy of expanding global partnerships to drive economic development.
