By Reportcircle-Abuja
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs,(MFA ) Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic and diplomatic ties with Singapore, following his participation in the 5th Singapore–Africa Ministerial Exchange Visit (SAMEV) held from August 26–28, 2025.
The biennial dialogue, hosted by Singapore’s Foreign Minister, Dr. Vivian Balakrishnan, was convened under the theme “Progressing Together towards a Sustainable Future.”
Since its launch in 2014, SAMEV has provided a platform for African nations and Singapore to share development experiences and strengthen cooperation.
This year’s edition drew ministers and deputy ministers from 14 African countries, including Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda.
Delegates paid a courtesy call on Singapore’s Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Mr. Lawrence Wong, on August 27, with discussions focused on expanding Africa–Singapore partnerships.
In parallel with SAMEV, the African delegation also took part in the 8th Africa–Singapore Business Forum (ASBF 2025), organized by Enterprise Singapore.
The forum attracted more than 700 business and government leaders from over 40 countries across Africa and Asia, making it a key hub for investment matchmaking and new partnerships.
Nigeria featured prominently, with Gbenga Oyebode, MFR, Chairman of ALN, and Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of the Africa Finance Corporation, delivering keynote interventions.
Both emphasized Africa’s growing role in the global economy and Nigeria’s status as a strategic investment hub.
ASBF was headlined by Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, who delivered the keynote address during his State Visit to Singapore.
A landmark achievement for Nigeria during the visit was the entry into force of the Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (IPPA), also known as a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) between Nigeria and Singapore on August 22, 2025.
The treaty establishes a legal framework to safeguard and encourage investments between the two countries, providing protections for Singaporean investors while boosting Nigeria’s attractiveness as a prime destination for foreign direct investment.
Ambassador Tuggar described the BIT as a catalyst for deepening investor confidence and unlocking opportunities in critical sectors such as infrastructure, technology, and sustainable development.
For Nigeria, participation in SAMEV and ASBF 2025 highlighted the importance of bilateral and multilateral engagement in advancing national priorities.
The platforms also allowed Nigeria to showcase its economic reforms, spotlight investment opportunities, and build networks with policymakers and business leaders from both Asia and Africa.
Ambassador Tuggar reiterated Nigeria’s foreign policy focus under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration:
“Nigeria remains committed to leveraging global partnerships to drive sustainable development, attract investments, and consolidate our leadership role in Africa’s engagement with the world.”
