23rd President of Bangladesh Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir. Photo: Reuters
The Federal Government of Nigeria has congratulated Mirza Fakhrul Islam Alamgir on his election as the 23rd President of Bangladesh, describing the development as a significant milestone in the country’s democratic journey.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu in a post on X on Friday, conveyed Nigeria’s congratulations to Alamgir, the Government and people of Bangladesh on behalf of the Federal Government.
Alamgir was elected by Bangladesh’s Parliament, the Jatiya Sangsad, on Thursday, August 20, 2026, securing 255 votes against 88 votes obtained by his opponent, retired Colonel Oli Ahmad. His election was the country’s first contested presidential election in 35 years. ([United News Bangladesh
In its message, Nigeria commended the people and institutions of Bangladesh for the peaceful conduct of the electoral process.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that Alamgir would provide “responsible and purposeful leadership” focused on advancing national unity, stability, democratic governance and sustainable development.
Nigeria also described its relationship with Bangladesh as cordial, saying both countries share “mutual respect, shared interests and a common commitment to international cooperation and multilateralism.”
According to the statement, the two countries, as members of the Global South, have common interests in sustainable development, economic growth, food and energy security, climate action and stronger South-South cooperation.
Nigeria said it looks forward to working with Alamgir and his administration to deepen bilateral relations, particularly in trade and investment, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, education, information and communications technology, healthcare, culture and people-to-people exchanges.
The Federal Government further recognised Bangladesh’s constructive role in regional and international affairs and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening cooperation with the country through the United Nations, Organisation of Islamic Cooperation and other relevant multilateral platforms.
As Alamgir prepares to assume the country’s highest constitutional office, Nigeria wished him “wisdom, good health and success” in the discharge of his responsibilities.
The Federal Government expressed confidence that his leadership would contribute to the continued “peace, stability, prosperity and development” of Bangladesh.
Alamgir’s election has also attracted congratulations from several countries, including China, the United Kingdom, France and Switzerland, which have expressed interest in strengthening relations with his administration.
