UAE pledges stronger relationship as Nigeria celebrates independence
The Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Lagos, Mr Salem Aljaberi with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State. Credit: X | UAE Consulate in Lagos
… commends the progress of bilateral relations since 1982.
The Consul General of the United Arab Emirates in Lagos, Mr Salem Aljaberi, has congratulated Nigeria on its 65th Independence anniversary, pledging that the UAE will continue to strengthen its partnership with the country in key sectors of development.
Already this year’s celebration was scaled down following the Federal Government’s cancellation of the traditional parade.
In a statement on Tuesday, Aljaberi commended the progress of bilateral relations since diplomatic ties were established in 1982.
“On behalf of the Consulate General of the UAE in Lagos, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on the occasion of your 65th Independence Day celebration.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the UAE and Nigeria in 1982, our ties have been characterised by mutual respect, trust, and shared ambition”, he noted.
The envoy noted that relations have deepened across politics, trade, culture, healthcare, education, and people-to-people connections, describing them as proof of the enduring value both nations place on partnership.
According to him, economic cooperation between both countries has grown remarkably.
“Our economic cooperation has seen remarkable growth. In 2024, non-oil bilateral trade between our two nations reached approximately USD 4.3 billion, representing a 56.1% year-on-year increase.
“By the second quarter of 2025, the UAE ranked among Nigeria’s top five import partners.
“Beyond trade, Emirati investments continue to find strong roots in Nigeria, further expanding opportunities for innovation and prosperity,” he added.
Aljaberi also highlighted milestones recorded since the UAE Consulate General opened in Lagos in 2019.
“Since the establishment of the UAE Consulate General in Lagos in 2019, we have witnessed significant milestones: the inauguration of the UAE Visa and Attestation Centre, the launch of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce office, several UAE–Nigeria Investors Roundtable, multiple Gitex technology events, the facilitation of over 15 trade missions comprising more than 50 UAE companies,” he noted.
He recalled high-level visits that have helped strengthen ties, including President Bola Tinubu’s official trip to the UAE.
“High-level visits have also reinforced our commitment. The visit of His Highness Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, to Nigeria, and the historic visit of His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the UAE have ushered in a renewed era of cooperation, strengthening dialogue and unlocking new opportunities across multiple sectors.”
Looking ahead, the Consul General said the UAE was committed to expanding cooperation with Nigeria in areas such as trade facilitation, education, healthcare, fintech, green energy, and tourism.
“As Nigeria marks this milestone of 65 years of independence, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to strengthening cooperation in trade facilitation, education, healthcare collaboration, fintech, green energy, and tourism. Together, we will continue to build bridges of friendship and prosperity that reflect our shared values and common aspirations,” he said.
Aljaberi also expressed gratitude to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu and his deputy for the reception given to UAE officials.
“In this regard, I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the leadership of Lagos State for the warmth and hospitality extended to the delegation of the UAE diplomats in Nigeria. We remain especially grateful to His Excellency the Governor of Lagos State, and to his Deputy, for their warm welcome during my assumption of duties as Consul General. These gestures embody the spirit of friendship and openness that continue to define the UAE–Nigeria relationship,” he said.
The Consul General concluded by wishing Nigeria peace, progress, and greater achievements.
“On this momentous occasion, I extend warm wishes of peace, progress, and enduring success to the Government and people of Nigeria. May the years ahead bring even greater achievements for this great nation, and may the friendship between the UAE and Nigeria continue to flourish. As the popular saying goes, Naija no dey carry last”, he concluded.
