His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria observe a guard parade during President Tinubu's visit to Qatar Credit: @officialABAT

President Bola Tinubu emphasized the value of Nigerian youths during a meeting in Doha, highlighting their education, reliability, and proactivity as qualities worthy of investment.

In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations, Qatar and Nigeria signed several key agreements aimed at fostering cooperation and mutual benefits at the Amiri Diwan on Sunday, in the presence of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani and H.E. President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu. These agreements address a variety of critical issues, including education and employment regulation, youth empowerment, and combating illicit trade.

Among the key agreements signed is an education cooperation agreement, which signals Qatar and Nigeria’s commitment to improving educational exchange and collaboration. Furthermore, the regulation of worker employment by the Government of Qatar highlights efforts to streamline labour practices and ensure the well-being of workers from both countries.

Furthermore, the formation of a joint business council (JBC) between the Qatar Chamber and the Nigerian Chambers of Commerce is expected to facilitate increased trade and investment opportunities, thereby driving economic growth and prosperity in both countries. Furthermore, cooperation agreements in the fields of youth and sports, tourism and business events, and combating the illicit trade in narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances demonstrate Qatar and Nigeria’s comprehensive partnership.

These agreements represent a significant milestone in Qatar and Nigeria’s bilateral relations, indicating a strengthening of cooperation and mutual benefits. These agreements, by allowing for greater collaboration across a variety of key sectors, are poised to drive economic growth and development, fostering prosperity for both nations and peoples.

Using their official X platform, both leaders emphasised the significance of the meeting and strengthened cooperation between the two countries.

The Amir was quoted as saying: “Today, I discussed with the President of Nigeria, Ahmed Tinubu, ways to develop our relations of friendship and cooperation in a way that enhances common interests and leads to building multiple bilateral partnerships. We look forward to more cooperation in the future that invests all the opportunities and capabilities of our two countries for the benefit of the two friendly peoples.”

Meanwhile, President Tinubu said: “My visit to Qatar marks a historic moment of collaboration and investment opportunities between Nigeria and Qatar. Fruitful discussions with His Highness, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, pave the way for mutual growth in education, enterprise, youth empowerment, and more. Our commitment to leveraging the potential of our people for prosperity shines bright.”

The official talks, which took place at the Amiri Diwan, began with His Highness the Amir welcoming President Tinubu and his delegation. His Highness expressed optimism about the visit’s potential to strengthen bilateral relations and emphasised the importance of cooperation in a variety of areas for the benefit of both countries.

President Tinubu thanked His Highness the Amir for his warm reception and hospitality. He echoed the sentiment of improving relations and cooperation between Qatar and Nigeria, emphasising the importance of seizing economic opportunities to strengthen bilateral ties.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite (left); President Bola Tinubu and Qatar's Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Qassim Al Thani, at the Nigeria-Qatar Business and Investment Forum in Doha.

During the talks, the two leaders discussed bilateral relations, focusing on opportunities for growth and improvement in trade, the economy, investment, energy, and education. They also discussed key regional and international issues, such as the occupied Palestinian territories and the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Senior officials from Qatar and Nigeria attended the talks, emphasising their commitment to fostering dialogue and cooperation at the highest levels. A bilateral meeting between His Highness the Amir and President Tinubu facilitated discussions on a variety of regional and international issues of common interest.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, signed on behalf of his country, while officials from the State of Qatar, including Buthaina bint Ali Al Jabr Al Nuaimi, Minister of Education and Higher Education; Dr. Ahmad Hassen Al-Hammadi, Secretary General at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Sheikh Khalifa Bin Jassim Al Thani, Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI); and Abdullah bin Khalaf bin Hattab Al Kaabi, Undersecretary of the Minis

To commemorate the visit, His Highness the Amir hosted a luncheon for President Tinubu and his delegation, emphasising the value of cultural exchange and hospitality in bilateral relations.

The official reception ceremony held at the Amiri Diwan upon President Tinubu’s arrival represented Qatar and Nigeria’s warm and longstanding ties, reaffirming both countries’ commitment to strengthening their friendship and cooperation for the benefit of their people.