Kaduna (Nigeria): The Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, says both countries need to work harder to raise bilateral trade to $5 billion, describing current levels as far below potential.
Poroy visited Kaduna to meet KADCCIMA officials and discuss boosting bilateral trade. The ambassador explained that the visit followed directives from Türkiye’s president following a recent presidential engagement, emphasising a renewed push to strengthen economic ties with Nigeria.
According to him, the current bilateral trade stands at about two billion dollars, while Turkish investments in Nigeria are approximately four hundred million dollars.
He noted that Nigeria, as one of Africa’s largest economies, holds vast opportunities for Turkish investors. He emphasised Nigeria’s significant investment opportunities, noting that current figures fall short of the real potential for Turkish investors. He noted the need for deeper collaboration and future sector-specific discussions.
He stressed the importance of partnership between government authorities and private-sector players in both countries as a strategic approach to achieving shared economic goals.
The envoy also highlighted the role of chambers of commerce as key intermediaries in fostering business ties and facilitating trade. It would be deployed to strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and Türkiye.
Poroy further said that a Joint Economic Trade Commission framework had been established to monitor progress, address challenges, and propose solutions annually.
He assured Nigerian business stakeholders of improved visa processing, noting that business travel to Türkiye would be facilitated. Poroy assured stakeholders of faster visa processing for business travel to Türkiye. Poroy assured stakeholders of its kind for more than 15 years.
He said Kaduna remained a major industrial and agricultural hub with strong investment potential. He said Kaduna’s infrastructure, large population, and diverse economy strengthen its investment potential. ent, and the revitalisation of the Kaduna International Trade Fair complex.
Chairman of the Nigerian-Türkiye Business Council, Dele Oye, affirmed plans to deepen trade ties and position Kaduna as a key investment hub. operations and encourage more trade delegations between Nigeria and Türkiye.
Oye added that Kaduna’s strengths in agriculture, livestock, and youth population present opportunities. Oye noted Kaduna’s youth and agricultural strengths as opportunities for bilateral skills development and growth.