By Egena Sunday Ode
Nigeria and Sweden on Monday in Abuja declared their firm resolve to deepen bilateral relations through trade, sustainable development, gender equality, and cultural exchange.
To this effect, Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria will continue to be a dependable ally of Sweden in all seasons, noting that both countries are poised for a partnership “anchored in innovation, powered by people, and guided by our shared determination to uplift communities and secure prosperity for generations to come.”
This was the outcome of a meeting between the Vice President of Nigeria and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, according to a statement by Shettima’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
Her Royal Highness, Crown Princess Victoria, is on a three-day official visit to Nigeria as part of the bid to enhance diplomatic and economic relations between Sweden and Nigeria.
Describing the Crown Princess’s visit to Nigeria as opening doors to deeper institutional relations and greater cultural exchange between both nations, VP Shettima noted that the visit is not only a continuation of dialogue but also a new chapter for both nations.
“This moment opens the door to deeper institutional ties, stimulates business-to-business collaboration, and fosters greater cultural exchange.
“We are particularly excited about opportunities in renewable energy, precision agriculture, healthcare innovation, and gender inclusion—areas where Sweden has much to offer, and Nigeria is eager to learn,” the VP stated.
The statement said the Vice President recalled his high-level engagement in Stockholm, the capital of Sweden, in October last year when he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, pointing out that the visit marked a turning point in the bilateral relationship between both countries.
“From the warm hospitality extended by the Swedish government to the visionary discussions we had with Your Royal Highness, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and the captains of Swedish industry, we returned to Nigeria energised by a new momentum—one that has since translated into tangible outcomes for both our peoples.
“Our meetings in Sweden last year were not ceremonial; they were catalytic. They opened doors to strategic collaborations and renewed our commitment to making Nigeria a fertile ground for innovation, investment, and sustainable development”.
