The Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Lagos has extended warm congratulations to Nigeria as the country marks its 65th Independence anniversary today.
In a goodwill message obtained by journalists, the Consulate highlighted the enduring relationship between both nations, which dates back to the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1982.
It described the bilateral relationship as one built on “mutual respect, trust, and shared ambition,” adding that cooperation has deepened across trade, politics, culture, healthcare, and education over the decades.
According to the statement, non-oil trade between Nigeria and the UAE reached about $4.3 billion in 2024 — a 56.1 percent increase from the previous year — with the UAE ranking among Nigeria’s top five import partners by the second quarter of 2025.
Emirati investments, it added, continue to expand in Nigeria, unlocking opportunities for innovation and prosperity.
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The Consulate also pointed to milestones since its Lagos office was opened in 2019, including the establishment of the UAE Visa and Attestation Centre, the launch of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce office, multiple UAE–Nigeria investors’ roundtables, Gitex technology events, and more than 15 trade missions involving over 50 UAE companies.
It further referenced high-level visits such as that of Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE’s Minister of State, and President Bola Tinubu’s official visit to the UAE, describing them as markers of a “renewed era of cooperation.”
Reaffirming its commitment, the UAE pledged to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria in trade facilitation, healthcare, fintech, green energy, education, and tourism.
“As Nigeria celebrates this milestone of 65 years of independence, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to building bridges of friendship and prosperity that reflect our shared values and aspirations,” the Consulate noted, while expressing appreciation to Lagos State for its hospitality towards UAE diplomats.
The message concluded with warm wishes of peace, progress, and greater achievements for Nigeria, adding in a light-hearted close: “As the popular saying goes, Naija no dey carry last!”.
Image Credit: Punch Newspapers
