Nigeria and the Philippines have reaffirmed commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation across education, trade, technology, tourism and other key sectors, as both countries mark 65 years of diplomatic relations.
This was disclosed during a meeting between the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and the Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria, Ambassador Mersole J. Mellejor, in Abuja.
Ambassador Mellejor described Nigeria as a key partner in Africa and highlighted the strength of relations between both countries.
“Nigeria is a strategic partner in Africa and we commend the longstanding cordial relations that exist between our two countries,” he said.
He also conveyed goodwill messages from the Philippine government.
“I bring the congratulations and goodwill of the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Philippines on your appointment,” Mellejor added.
Both sides emphasised the importance of South-South cooperation in driving shared development and economic progress.
According to the Ministry, the discussions focused on expanding collaboration in education, labour mobility, skills development, information technology, business process outsourcing, tourism, hospitality, creative industries, trade and investment.
The meeting placed strong emphasis on educational cooperation, with the Philippine envoy disclosing that thousands of Nigerians are currently studying in the country.
“Approximately 9,000 Nigerian students are currently studying in various Philippine institutions,” Mellejor said.
He added that education remains a key pillar of bilateral relations between both nations.
The Ministry also noted growing engagement between Nigeria and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), with the Philippines encouraging Nigeria to deepen regional cooperation.
“The Philippines has invited Nigeria to consider accession to the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation in Southeast Asia as part of efforts to strengthen inter-regional cooperation and promote peaceful coexistence among nations,” the statement said.
Both countries expressed optimism that strengthened ties will unlock more opportunities for economic growth and people-to-people exchange.