Nigeria, Czech Republic Deepen Security, Investment Ties at UNGA

Nigeria and the Czech Republic are set to strengthen cooperation in defence, security, trade and investment following high-level discussions on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, held bilateral talks with Czech Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Petr Macinka on September 23, with discussions focused on expanding political and economic relations between both countries.

Nigeria highlighted investment opportunities in industry, infrastructure, technology and innovation and encouraged increased participation by Czech businesses in the Nigerian economy.

Both sides identified trade and investment as important areas for strengthening bilateral economic ties, with Nigeria seeking greater foreign investment to support industrial development and economic growth.

Defence and security cooperation also featured prominently during the meeting. The two countries discussed ways to expand collaboration in support of Nigeria’s efforts to tackle terrorism and other national security threats.

Nigeria stressed that defence cooperation should go beyond the acquisition of military equipment, calling for technology transfer, local capacity building, maintenance capabilities and joint ventures.

The approach is consistent with Nigeria’s broader efforts to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing and develop the capacity of institutions such as the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria.

Recent engagements between Nigerian and Czech defence officials have also focused on technology transfer, military hardware production and the possible establishment of an ammunition production line in Nigeria.

The foreign ministers also discussed visa and mobility issues, with Nigeria emphasising the importance of predictable and transparent visa processes for Nigerian students, researchers, businesspeople and professionals travelling to the Czech Republic.

Their discussions extended to broader international issues, including United Nations reform, Security Council reform, international peace and security, climate action, sustainable development and digital governance.

Nigeria and the Czech Republic also stressed the importance of giving developing countries stronger representation in global governance structures.

The two countries expressed confidence in the future of their bilateral relations and reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

The discussions form part of Nigeria’s wider diplomatic engagements during UNGA 81, where the country is seeking stronger international partnerships in security, economic development, investment and multilateral cooperation.