Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has called for enhanced economic, cultural, and strategic cooperation between Africa and Latin America at the CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum in Bogotá.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Tuggar described the forum as a vital platform for strengthening ties among countries of the Global South amid shifting global dynamics. He commended Gustavo Petro for convening the meeting at a time of increasing geopolitical uncertainty.
“We live in extraordinary times,” Tuggar said, noting that conflicts across the world have far-reaching implications for developing nations. He urged countries in both regions to work collectively in addressing shared risks and fostering global stability.
The Minister emphasised the need for Africa and Latin America to redefine their roles in an increasingly fragmented international system. He called for a unified voice among Global South nations to advocate for fairer global structures and stronger partnerships.
Highlighting Nigeria’s priorities, Tuggar identified key sectors for collaboration, including education, energy, agriculture, solid minerals, and technology. He stressed the importance of inclusion in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, warning that both regions must not be left behind in global innovation.
On economic opportunities, Tuggar pointed to Nigeria’s vast market potential and ongoing efforts to achieve food self-sufficiency. He disclosed that fertiliser production in the country is projected to reach 6.5 million tonnes this year, driven by policies aimed at supporting farmers and boosting agricultural output.
The Minister also underscored the role of culture and creative industries in deepening bilateral ties, calling for increased collaboration in arts, education, digital innovation, and intellectual property development.
Addressing broader global challenges, Tuggar advocated joint action on climate change, improved healthcare access, and technology transfer. He reiterated Nigeria’s stance on the repatriation of illicit financial flows and renewed calls for historical reparations linked to slavery and colonialism.
He further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to international cooperation, citing the Technical Aid Corps programme, which has deployed skilled professionals to Caribbean nations since 1987.
The CELAC–Africa High-Level Forum, held from March 20 to 21, 2026, brought together leaders and representatives from Latin America, the Caribbean, and Africa to explore avenues for stronger political, economic, and cultural collaboration.
In his closing remarks, Tuggar urged participating nations to seize the momentum of the forum to reshape interregional relations and unlock shared prosperity.
