Nigeria and Israel Strengthen Ties in Agriculture, Security, and Innovation
posted 20th February 2025
Nigeria and Israel Strengthen Ties in Agriculture, Security, and Innovation
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, recently held a high-level meeting with Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Michael Freeman, to discuss bilateral cooperation and pressing global issues.
During the meeting, Minister Ojukwu expressed Nigeria’s condolences over the tragic events of the 7th October 2023 Hamas attacks, which led to the ongoing Israel-Hamas war. She acknowledged the devastating impact on both sides, highlighting the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Minister commended the ceasefire agreement and the safe return of hostages while noting Ambassador Freeman’s assurance that Israel has no territorial ambitions for Gaza.
The discussions between the two officials focused on strengthening collaboration in key sectors, including agriculture, water management, security, and counter-terrorism. Minister Ojukwu underscored the importance of leveraging Israel’s expertise in agricultural innovation and water conservation to boost Nigeria’s food security.
She also praised Israel’s Mashav initiative, the country’s international development cooperation agency, for its contributions to Nigeria. The Minister encouraged an expansion of its programs to further benefit Nigerian communities, particularly in healthcare and education. Israel’s ongoing malaria eradication project, advanced eye-care and complex surgery initiatives, and distance learning programs were recognised as impactful interventions in Nigeria.
Additionally, the meeting explored opportunities for cooperation in the medical field, including capacity-building initiatives for Nigerian medical professionals. Minister Ojukwu also proposed a potential collaboration between Israel and Nigeria’s dynamic film industry, Nollywood, for future co-productions that could showcase both nations’ cultural narratives.
With Israel’s reputation for technological innovation, Ambassador Freeman reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape through initiatives such as the Israeli Innovation Centre and the I-FAIR mentorship programme, which nurtures Nigerian start-ups.
The discussions reflect a growing partnership between Nigeria and Israel, with both nations aiming to foster sustainable development, enhance security cooperation, and deepen cultural and economic ties.
