Nigeria and Israel have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation across security, defence, trade, agriculture, technology, healthcare and innovation following the valedictory visit of Israel’s outgoing Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman.

The renewed commitment was made on Monday when Ambassador Freeman paid a farewell visit to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.

The meeting highlighted both countries’ determination to expand collaboration in tackling insecurity, increasing food production, advancing technological innovation and boosting trade. Israel also pledged continued support for Nigeria’s development priorities.

During the meeting, Odumegwu-Ojukwu commended the Israeli ambassador for strengthening relations between both countries during his tenure, noting that his efforts had laid a strong foundation for future cooperation.

“I know you are here at a critical period. Under you, everybody saw that there’s a lot of understanding. You’ve made the job so easy for your successor,” the minister said.

The minister disclosed that the Federal Government is seeking closer collaboration with Israel in counter-terrorism, intelligence gathering, information sharing, security financing and the training of security personnel. She added that Nigeria also intends to benefit from Israel’s expertise in border security to combat cross-border crimes.

According to Odumegwu-Ojukwu, security remains central to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s development agenda, emphasising that sustainable economic growth depends on a secure environment.

She cited the recent rescue of the abducted Oriire schoolchildren by Nigerian security agencies as an example of ongoing efforts to address insecurity across the country.

The minister also identified technology and innovation as key areas for expanded cooperation, encouraging stronger partnerships between Nigerian startups and Israeli technology firms.

“When Nigerian ingenuity meets Israeli innovation, remarkable achievements become possible,” she said, adding that Nigeria was keen to leverage Israeli expertise in water management and modern agricultural technology to improve food security.

In his response, Ambassador Freeman described Nigeria as “an amazing country” with warm and hospitable people while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to broadening cooperation in innovation, agriculture, healthcare, education, security and skills development.

“We are more than willing to work with Nigeria. We know that after the elections, things will be a lot easier. We are committed to defence and security cooperation with Nigeria,” he said.

Freeman also noted that bilateral trade between Nigeria and Israel, currently estimated at about $200 million annually, remains below its full potential. He expressed confidence that both governments would work towards significantly increasing trade and investment in the years ahead.

Nigeria and Israel have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, with cooperation spanning agriculture, security, healthcare, education and technology. Israel is internationally recognised for its expertise in precision agriculture, water conservation, cybersecurity and innovation—areas Nigeria aims to leverage as it works to diversify its economy, strengthen national security and accelerate sustainable development.

Source: Arise News