Nigeria and Mexico have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations through enhanced ministerial visits aimed at expanding cooperation in key sectors, including tourism, trade, and culture.
This development was highlighted during a valedictory visit by the outgoing Mexican Ambassador to Nigeria, Alfredo Miranda Ortiz, to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, following the completion of his diplomatic tour.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen collaboration with Mexico, particularly in tourism and cultural development, noting the shared values between both nations despite their geographical distance.
“I am amazed when I go to Mexico because it is a family-oriented country. We have shared values. So, we have to expand our bilateral relations in areas of trade, cultural exchange and so on,” she said.
She also called for increased engagement with Nigeria’s Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy to explore opportunities for mutual growth in the tourism sector.
The Minister commended Ambassador Ortiz for his contributions to strengthening Nigeria–Mexico relations, particularly in economic cooperation and trade diversification.
During his tenure, Ambassador Ortiz played a key role in establishing the Nigerian–Mexican Chamber of Commerce and facilitating the opening of a Mexican honorary consulate in Lagos, initiatives that have helped deepen bilateral ties.
According to a statement by the Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the Minister, Dr. Magnus Eze, the ambassador was also instrumental in promoting cultural and social advocacy, including support for inclusive development initiatives such as the empowerment of women and girls.
Ambassador Ortiz, who was accompanied by his spouse, Maria, and embassy officials, expressed appreciation to the Nigerian government for its support during his nearly four-year tenure. He noted that bilateral relations had grown significantly through structured diplomatic engagement.
He highlighted key achievements, including strengthened agricultural cooperation under the SENASICA–NAQS framework, which boosted Nigeria’s hibiscus exports to Mexico.
Describing Nigeria as a regional power and a strong voice within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ortiz praised the country’s growing global influence.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom, describing it as a reflection of Nigeria’s international standing.
Looking ahead, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration into emerging sectors such as manufacturing, mining, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and the digital economy, while sustaining strong political, economic, and diplomatic ties.
