ABUJA — The federal government has restated its continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Egypt, stating that both countries stand to benefit significantly from the enduring partnership.
Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammed Goronyo, made the pledge when he received the outgoing Egyptian Defence Attaché to Nigeria, Colonel Mohammed Ibrahim, and his successor, Colonel Mohamad Mosaad, during a courtesy visit to his office in Abuja on Wednesday.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Abdullahi Mohammed, the minister described the relationship between Nigeria and Egypt as cordial and mutually beneficial, noting that the two nations share longstanding historical and cultural ties.
The statement commended Colonel Ibrahim for his service and contributions towards strengthening Nigeria-Egypt relations during his tenure, particularly highlighting his professionalism, discipline and commitment to duty.
It also welcomed Colonel Mosaad and assured him of Nigeria’s readiness to sustain and deepen the existing relationship.
Growing Cooperation Under Tinubu, El-Sisi
According to the statement, relations between both countries have continued to gain momentum under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Egyptian counterpart, Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, with cooperation spanning trade, agriculture, tourism, security, education and economic development.
The statement stressed the need for African countries to deepen cooperation and leverage the continent’s human and natural resources to achieve sustainable development.
It expressed optimism that Memoranda of Understanding and other agreements between Nigeria and Egypt would translate into tangible benefits for citizens of both nations.
“On behalf of the Honourable Minister of Works, Engr. David Nweze Umahi, CON, FNSE, and the entire management and staff of the Federal Ministry of Works, I sincerely welcome you and thank you for this visit,” the statement said.
The minister wished the outgoing Defence Attaché success in his future assignments and assured the incoming attaché of the ministry’s full support in the discharge of his responsibilities.
Egypt Establishes Deputy Attaché Position
Earlier, Colonel Ibrahim thanked the minister for receiving him and his delegation, saying the meeting was significant as he prepares to conclude his diplomatic assignment in Nigeria.
He introduced Colonel Mosaad as his successor and expressed confidence that the existing strong relationship between Nigeria and Egypt would be further strengthened.
Colonel Ibrahim also disclosed that Egyptian authorities had approved the establishment of a Deputy Defence Attaché position in Nigeria, describing the development as an indication of the importance Egypt attaches to its bilateral and military relations with Nigeria.
Incoming Attaché Pledges Deeper Cooperation
In his remarks, Colonel Mosaad expressed appreciation for the warm reception and pledged to work towards deepening cooperation between the two countries.
He said he looked forward to identifying further opportunities for collaboration, investment and exchange of capabilities, stressing that Nigeria and Egypt, as major African countries, have a shared responsibility to contribute to the advancement of the continent.
The meeting concluded with renewed assurances of continued cooperation and mutual support between Nigeria and Egypt.
