The Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, on Monday, 16 February, received the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Nigeria, Ambassador Gholamreza Mahdavi Raja, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, to discuss ways of strengthening bilateral relations.
Ambassador Mahdavi conveyed greetings from the Iranian Foreign Minister and emphasized Nigeria’s strategic role in Iran’s Africa policy, especially in West Africa. He called for the restoration of full diplomatic representation in both capitals and highlighted the importance of deploying Nigeria’s Ambassador to Tehran.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, the meeting also explored the convening of the 7th Session of the Nigeria–Iran Joint Commission in Abuja and proposed activating a Political Consultation mechanism to enhance regular exchanges at senior levels. Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, education, and infrastructure. Opportunities for collaboration in healthcare, particularly cancer treatment, and scholarship programs for Nigerian students were also highlighted.
Responding, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu congratulated Ambassador Mahdavi on his appointment, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening relations with Iran, and welcomed proposals for enhanced economic cooperation through structured mechanisms such as the Joint Commission.
The meeting concluded in a cordial atmosphere, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to South-South cooperation, constructive engagement, and deeper collaboration within multilateral fora.
