By Ayo Kehinde
President Bola Tinubu has commenced high-level diplomatic engagements in Ankara, Turkey, following his arrival on Monday night for a multi-day state visit. The Nigerian leader was formally received by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday at the Presidential Complex, where both leaders held strategic discussions aimed at deepening the “power axis” between Africa’s largest economy and the Eurasian nation.
The visit, which follows President Erdoğan’s 2021 trip to Nigeria, focuses on a broad range of sectors, including defense, energy, scientific research, and aviation.
Bilateral trade between the two nations has grown significantly, with Turkey becoming Nigeria’s largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa in 2025.
Discussions on Tuesday were expected to culminate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to further stimulate investment and technical cooperation.
During the formal welcome ceremony at the Presidential Complex, President Tinubu experienced a brief loss of footing as he walked alongside President Erdoğan.
However, the President quickly regained his balance and proceeded with the ceremonial review of the guard of honor without further incident.
The Presidency confirmed that the Nigerian leader is in good health and has maintained his full schedule of meetings.
President Tinubu is accompanied on the visit by a high-powered delegation, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Defense, General Christopher Musa; Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; and the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
In addition to state-level talks, the visit features a business forum designed to connect Nigerian and Turkish investors.
With over 50 Turkish firms currently operating in Nigeria and major infrastructure projects totaling nearly $3 billion, the administration hopes this visit will secure new commitments in solid minerals and renewable energy under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
