Nigerian diplomats will now enjoy a visa waiver to Egypt following the elevation of the relationship between both countries to a Comprehensive Partnership level.

A statement released by the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs revealed that both countries will also explore other areas of collaboration and partnership during their meeting in Cairo, Egypt, with security cooperation being a key agenda item.

The statement further noted that both countries have committed to intensifying coordination on regional and international issues.

The Minister of Water Resources, Joseph Utsev, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, are leading the Nigerian delegation in Cairo to participate in the third round of political consultations with Egyptian Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty.

According to the statement, both countries aim to strengthen the African Union’s role in addressing continental challenges and promoting integration.

They also pledged to advance democracy, good governance, and the objectives of Agenda 2063.

Egypt and Nigeria have agreed to enhance security cooperation by sharing experiences in implementing comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies.

The discussion also included conflict resolution in Africa through peacebuilding and sustainable development initiatives.

“The ministers acknowledged the potential for increased bilateral economic engagement and agreed to encourage both governmental and private sector participation in areas such as agriculture, energy, telecommunications, and infrastructure.

“They also discussed plans to establish a Nigeria-Egypt Chamber of Commerce by the end of 2025, with a formal launch anticipated during the fourth round of ministerial-level consultations in Abuja in 2026,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.

The Nigerian delegation commended recent agreements on visa exemptions for diplomatic passport holders and the adjustment of visa fees for citizens of both countries, reflecting a mutual commitment to facilitating easier movement and stronger people-to-people connections. (The Guardian)