ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Federal Government has reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring partnership with Senegal, describing it as a vital pillar for promoting peace, stability, and economic integration across West Africa.
This recognition was made during Senegal’s 65th Independence Day celebration, held on Friday at the Place de la Nation in Dakar, where Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The ceremony, hosted by Senegal’s recently sworn-in President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye, attracted high-level dignitaries from across the region, including the presidents of Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, and Mauritania.
On the sidelines of the event, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, described the relationship between both nations as “deep-rooted and strategic,” underpinned by a shared colonial past and aligned visions for democracy and economic growth.
“Senegal and Nigeria have very strong bilateral ties. This has been as a result of our shared history and circumstances—both countries attained independence at about the same time in 1960,” she said.
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In a statement released by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Stanley Nkwocha, the minister highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration in democracy, trade, and security.
She stated that “both countries have remained committed to deepening democratic governance, values, and constitutional governance in the African continent. We have also jointly remained committed in the fight against terrorism and building strong regional institutions.”
The Minister further revealed that Senegal is Nigeria’s top export destination within the ECOWAS region, accounting for 68.7% of Nigerian exports in the sub-region.
“Senegal takes 68.7% exports from Nigeria within the ECOWAS market,” she disclosed, calling it a sign of “mutually beneficial economic cooperation.”
She also referenced ongoing diplomatic engagement, noting that “the President of Senegal, Bassirou Diomaye Faye was in Nigeria last year to meet with our President, His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to talk about areas of collaboration and cooperation.”