In a significant diplomatic development, the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, has accepted an invitation from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to visit Nigeria later in 2025.
Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy in a statement on Thursday said the invitation was extended during bilateral talks held on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW) 2025.
President Tinubu, who arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday as a guest of the UAE leader, participated in the high-profile sustainability forum, which fosters global dialogue on addressing challenges such as climate change, water scarcity, and energy crises.
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Earlier on Wednesday, the Nigerian leader delivered Nigeria’s position on these pressing issues and commended the UAE for organizing a successful event.
During their meeting, both leaders expressed their commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
Sheikh Mohamed thanked President Tinubu for attending the forum and reaffirmed the UAE’s interest in expanding bilateral cooperation.
Discussions also centred on attracting investment into Nigeria, with President Tinubu emphasizing the impact of his administration’s economic reforms.
Tinubu said his administration’s reform policies have stabilized and grown Nigeria’s economy, creating a favourable environment for foreign investment.
He added that Major international companies are now signalling renewed confidence by committing billions of dollars to Nigeria.
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The Nigerian delegation included Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
On the UAE side, high-ranking officials, including Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, and Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, were present at the meeting held at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental.
He appreciated the UAE President for the warm hospitality extended to him and his team during their stay.
The anticipated visit of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to Nigeria is expected to further enhance the bilateral partnership, particularly in economic cooperation and sustainable development.
