Nigeria reaffirms strategic ties with Senegal at 65th independence celebration
…pushes for deeper cooperation in trade, security, and democracy
By Kunle Sanni
Nigeria has reaffirmed its strong ties with Senegal, describing the relationship as a strategic partnership vital to West Africa’s stability and economic growth.
This position was emphasized during Senegal’s 65th Independence Day celebration held on Friday at the Place de la Nation in Dakar, where Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, represented President Bola Tinubu. The event, hosted by Senegalese President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, was attended by several African leaders, including the Presidents of Guinea-Bissau, The Gambia, and Mauritania.
Speaking on the sidelines, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, highlighted the historical and strategic bonds between the two nations. She noted that both Nigeria and Senegal gained independence in 1960 and have since maintained strong bilateral ties rooted in shared democratic values and economic cooperation.
“Senegal and Nigeria have very strong bilateral ties, shaped by a shared history and commitment to democracy and regional peace,” she said. “Both countries have continued to champion democratic governance and the fight against terrorism in the sub-region.”
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further revealed that Senegal is Nigeria’s largest trade partner within the ECOWAS bloc, accounting for nearly 69% of Nigerian exports to the region. She described this as a reflection of “mutually beneficial economic cooperation.”
She also referenced high-level engagements between the two nations, including a visit by President Faye to Nigeria last year to meet with President Tinubu and explore avenues for stronger collaboration.
Nigeria’s delegation also included Hon. Oluwole Oke, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
At the ceremony, President Faye praised Senegal’s democratic evolution and pledged wide-ranging reforms aimed at transforming the country. His address focused on promoting fiscal responsibility, improving local governance, and safeguarding the nation’s financial future.
