Nigeria and Indonesia have taken a major step toward strengthening bilateral relations, as Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, Bambang Suharto, paid a courtesy visit to the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning to advance talks on economic cooperation, institutional partnerships, and sustainable development.
The high-level meeting was chaired by the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, alongside the Minister of State, Doris Uzoka-Anite, and the Permanent Secretary, Deborah Odoh, with senior officials from both nations in attendance.
Welcoming the delegation, Odoh described the visit as a reflection of the enduring partnership between Nigeria and Indonesia, anchored on mutual respect and shared aspirations for inclusive growth within the Global South. She noted that Indonesia’s strides in governance, economic diversification, and public sector innovation provide valuable lessons for Nigeria, adding that the engagement offers a timely platform to deepen institutional collaboration and explore practical development solutions.
In his remarks, Ambassador Suharto expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening longstanding ties with Nigeria. He highlighted key areas of cooperation, including trade and investment, budget management, economic diversification, and capacity building.
He also pointed to ongoing agricultural collaboration through livestock development initiatives in Sokoto and Kebbi states, as well as expanding partnerships in the pharmaceutical sector, where Indonesian firms are establishing manufacturing facilities in Lagos.
Looking ahead, the ambassador outlined plans for cooperation in strategic industries, including the development of Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facilities for aircraft and maritime assets in Nigeria an initiative aimed at positioning the country as a regional hub.
Responding, Bagudu welcomed the Indonesian delegation and praised the growing strength of bilateral ties. He noted Nigeria’s interest in learning from Indonesia’s economic transformation into a $1.4 trillion economy, particularly as the country advances implementation of its 2026–2030 National Development Plan.
“Indonesia remains a vital partner for Nigeria as we strive for inclusive growth and economic transformation. There is much we can accomplish together through shared knowledge, investment, and innovation,” he said.
The minister further emphasized Nigeria’s ambition to build a $1 trillion economy under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, stressing the importance of private-sector participation and international collaboration in achieving the goal.
Also speaking, Uzoka-Anite highlighted the strong cultural and economic ties between both nations, noting that shared values and similarities provide a solid foundation for deeper cooperation across multiple sectors. She called for increased engagement and enhanced knowledge sharing to translate opportunities into tangible outcomes.
The meeting concluded with both countries reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation frameworks, expanding investment opportunities, and deepening strategic partnerships for sustainable economic growth.
