Nigeria, Mexico plan ministerial exchanges to boost trade, bilateral ties
Nigeria and Mexico have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations through the exchange of ministerial visits, as both countries move to deepen cooperation across key sectors, including culture, tourism, trade, and the digital economy.
Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, disclosed this during a valedictory visit by the outgoing Mexican Ambassador to Nigeria, Alfredo Ortiz, in Abuja.
According to a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja and signed by Special Assistant on Communication and New Media to the minister, Magnus Eze,
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also sought Mexico’s support in developing Nigeria’s culture and tourism sector, noting the strong similarities between both countries.
“I am amazed when I go to Mexico because it’s 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.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu added that Nigeria could learn significantly from Mexico’s tourism industry, revealing ongoing discussions with the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy to expand cultural cooperation.
“We have a lot to learn from Mexico in the area of tourism. We are already engaging to see how we can deepen our cultural relations. We have a lot in common with Mexico,” she stated.
Nigeria and Mexico, which established diplomatic relations over 50 years ago, are regarded as regional powers in Africa and Latin America, respectively.
The minister commended Ortiz for what she described as a strategic and impactful tenure that strengthened bilateral relations, economic cooperation, and trade diversification.
During his nearly four-year posting, the ambassador oversaw the establishment of the Nigerian-Mexican Chamber of Commerce and the inauguration of a Mexican honorary consulate in Lagos, moves seen as critical to boosting economic ties.
Responding, Ortiz pledged to continue supporting relations between both countries even after leaving diplomatic service, while expressing appreciation to the Nigerian government for its cooperation.
“Bilateral relations have significantly advanced through enhanced diplomatic engagement and structured dialogue mechanisms,” he said.
The envoy highlighted key achievements during his tenure, including strengthened agricultural cooperation under the SENASICA–NAQS framework, which boosted Nigeria’s hibiscus exports to Mexico.
He described Nigeria as a strong voice in global affairs and a regional power within the Economic Community of West African States, and commended recent diplomatic engagements by President Bola Tinubu.
“I am sure that this historic event shows the importance of Nigeria in the international arena and the role it plays in regional affairs,” Ortiz said, referring to Tinubu’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom.
Looking ahead, Nigeria and Mexico signalled plans to expand collaboration into emerging sectors such as manufacturing, mining, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and the digital economy.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining strong political, economic, and diplomatic ties as they prepare to mark decades of bilateral engagement.
