Nigeria, Philippines deepen ties, plan business council
By Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigeria and the Philippines are set to strengthen economic and people to people relations with plans to establish a Nigeria Philippines Business Council and explore the creation of a Migrant Workers’ Office at the Philippine Embassy in Abuja.
The development followed discussions between Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, and her Philippine counterpart, Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The two countries identified fertiliser production, food security and liquefied natural gas as key areas for expanded economic cooperation.
They also agreed to explore reciprocal ministerial visits in 2027 to strengthen bilateral relations and advance areas of mutual interest.
Both sides will further consult on the proposed Migrant Workers’ Office, which is expected to enhance protection and support for Nigerians and Filipinos living and working in each other’s countries.
The discussions also covered possible scholarship and student exchange programmes, as well as mutual recognition of educational certificates to promote educational cooperation.
The proposed initiatives are aimed at expanding trade, investment, educational opportunities and people to people engagement between the two countries.
