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Nigeria and Israel are set to strengthen their alliance, as the two nations resumed talks on cooperation in key sectors, including agriculture, technology, security, and healthcare.
The high-level meeting between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, took place in Abuja on Tuesday, May 26, 2026.
The talks focused on regional developments in the Middle East, multilateral cooperation, and opportunities for expanded collaboration.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized the importance of dialogue, mutual understanding, and high-level engagements in promoting stronger bilateral ties between both countries.
She reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to continue engaging Israel on issues of shared interest and global concern, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remained “open to dialogue and constructive engagement with Israeli leadership.” Freeman congratulated the minister on her recent appointment and conveyed a message from the Israeli Foreign Minister, alongside an invitation for her to undertake an official visit to Israel.
The Israeli envoy also stressed the need to revive high-level official exchanges between Nigeria and Israel as part of efforts to strengthen longstanding bilateral relations.
““Open to dialogue and constructive engagement with Israeli leadership””
— President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
The talks also examined security developments in the Middle East, including the situation in Israel and broader regional instability.
Freeman provided updates on the conflict’s security implications and underscored the importance of coordinated efforts toward peace and stability.
The meeting ended on a positive note, with both sides agreeing to maintain open channels of communication and advance ongoing diplomatic consultations between Nigeria and Israel.
Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has been the Minister of Foreign Affairs since her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in March 2023.
She has been a vocal advocate for stronger bilateral ties between Nigeria and Israel, highlighting the potential for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, technology, and security.
The renewed talks between Nigeria and Israel follow a period of increased tensions in the Middle East, which has affected regional stability and global security.
The talks have also been seen as an opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen its position in the region and promote its interests.
Nigeria and Israel have a long-standing bilateral relationship, with cooperation in areas such as defense, agriculture, and education.
However, the relationship has faced challenges in recent years, including disagreements over issues such as Israel’s policies towards the Palestinian people.
The renewed talks represent a significant step towards strengthening the relationship and promoting peace and stability in the region.