By Ekunkonye Junior
Abuja
Nigeria and Poland have pledged to deepen cooperation across security, trade, technology and institutional development following a meeting in Abuja on Thursday between Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo and Polish Deputy Prime Minister Krzysztof Gawkowski.
According to a press release e-signed by Mrs Mary Ali, Head, Press and Public Relations on Thursday, the Polish delegation, which included Ambassador Michal Cygan, met with Tunji-Ojo at the Ministry of Interior headquarters. Both sides said the talks marked the start of a more strategic partnership, according to a statement signed by the ministry’s Head of Press and Public Relations, Mary Ali.
Welcoming the delegation, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo described the visit as a significant step in advancing Nigeria-Poland relations, saying it marked the start of a stronger and more strategic partnership. He stressed Nigeria’s commitment to collaboration, mutual learning, and shared development, noting that both countries have distinct strengths that can be leveraged to tackle common challenges and create new opportunities. “This visit isn’t just another diplomatic meeting,” he said. “It’s building the foundation for a sustainable and mutually beneficial relationship between Nigeria and Poland.”
Discussions focused on expanding cooperation in border management, internal security systems, technology transfer, cybersecurity, innovation, and institutional capacity development. Tunji-Ojo said Nigeria was keen to learn from Poland’s expertise and explore technical partnerships and investment opportunities in those areas.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo also recognized the ongoing diplomatic talks and welcomed plans for him to visit Poland soon. That trip should open up more conversations with Polish government bodies and business leaders who work in security and internal affairs.
The Minister confirmed Nigeria is ready for international investments and key partnerships. He spoke about recent economic changes the Nigerian government has made, such as unifying exchange rates, trying to control inflation, and taking away fuel subsidies. These changes are meant to reshape the economy and make investors feel more confident.
“We look forward to formalising our cooperation through official agreements and building practical solutions that will benefit both countries,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the Deputy Prime Minister expressed appreciation for the warm reception and commended the growing momentum in Polish–Nigerian relations.
He described Nigeria as a nation with considerable economic, demographic, and technological potential and identified it as a strategic partner for long-term cooperation.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted that Poland is ready to contribute through its expertise in innovation, digitalisation, infrastructure development, and advanced technologies.
He extended a formal invitation to the Honourable Minister to visit Poland soon, expressing optimism that continued engagement would create new opportunities for collaboration between government institutions and private sector stakeholders in both countries. He also acknowledged Nigeria’s ongoing improvements in internal security, noting significant potential for future cooperation in that area. The meeting was described as another important step in strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Poland, reflecting the shared commitment of both countries to building a productive and enduring partnership.
