Bangladesh and Nigeria have pledged to explore  new frontiers in agriculture and trade as both countries seek to deepen bilateral cooperation and unlock economic opportunities.

The two countries stated this at the 55th anniversary of Bangladesh’s independence on Thursday in Abuja.

Speaking at the event, Bangladeshi high commissioner to Nigeria, Miah Mainul Kabir, said there was a need to unlock untapped economic opportunities and to strengthen collaboration in agriculture, particularly contract farming, to ensure mutual benefits.

He noted that Bangladesh’s experience in high-yield, climate-resilient farming, combined with Nigeria’s large agricultural base, offers a pathway to enhanced food security and economic growth.

Mr Kabir said that Bangladesh is seeking deeper engagement with Africa, especially Nigeria, a country which he said has significant economic potential.

According to him, Bangladesh has continued to record steady socio-economic progress, driven by a diversified economy spanning textiles, pharmaceuticals, agriculture and information technology.

Mr Kabir added that there is considerable scope to expand bilateral trade, particularly in garments, processed foods, ceramics, and ICT services.

“We believe that beyond trade, there is a considerable scope for cooperation in education and skills development, digital innovation, technology transfer, defence, and particularly professional military training and peacekeeping operations of Bangladesh and Nigeria.

“People-to-people contact, cultural exchange, academic collaboration, and youth engagement remain essential pillars of our bilateral relationship,” Mr Kabir said.

Foreign affairs minister Yusuf Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening relations with Bangladesh.

Mr Tuggar congratulated Bangladesh on its 55th independence anniversary and commended its progress in human development and industrialisation. He said both countries shared common values, including commitment to multilateralism, peacekeeping and inclusive development.

“Nigeria and Bangladesh have continued to grow their partnership in trade, agriculture, education and defence cooperation,” Mr Tuggar said.

The minister noted that Nigeria welcomed increased Bangladeshi investment and encouraged deeper private-sector collaboration between the two countries. Mr Tuggar added that there were strong prospects for cooperation in textiles, pharmaceuticals, ICT and renewable energy.

“We welcome the expanding presence of Bangladesh business in Nigeria and encourage even deeper engagement between our private sectors.

“There is vast potential for collaboration in textile, pharmaceuticals, ICT, and renewable energy sectors, where Bangladesh has developed notable expertise.

“We believe that enhanced cooperation between our two countries will not only benefit our peoples, but also contribute to broader South-South cooperation and collaboration and global development efforts,” Mr Tuggar said.

(NAN)