ISLAMABAD, October 29, 2026: Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed has emphasised the growing importance of Africa in global affairs and called for stronger Pakistan–Nigeria relations through enhanced trade, investment, education, research and people-to-people exchanges.Speaking at a celebration of Nigeria’s National Day organised at the Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI), speakers highlighted the longstanding friendship between Pakistan and Nigeria and stressed the need to translate historical goodwill into concrete economic and strategic cooperation.
Charge d’Affaires of Nigeria to Pakistan, Mohammed Yasau, called for both countries to move beyond their traditional ties towards a dynamic, forward-looking strategic partnership. He emphasised the need to strengthen cooperation in defence and security, trade, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, energy and information technology, alongside greater coordination at multilateral forums.He also underlined the shared responsibility of Pakistan and Nigeria in promoting global peace, equitable development and a more representative international order.In his introductory remarks, Ambassador Moin ul Haque, Director General of ISSI, highlighted Nigeria’s economic potential, rich cultural heritage and regional leadership. He recalled the longstanding friendship between the two countries, established in 1961, and called for increased bilateral trade and accelerated progress towards a bilateral trade treaty.Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed recalled the historical bonds between Pakistan and Nigeria, including the legacy of Nigeria’s first Prime Minister, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. He highlighted Africa’s increasing global significance and the opportunities available for Pakistan to expand cooperation with African countries in trade, investment, education and research.
He stressed the importance of converting longstanding goodwill into practical partnerships.Muhammad Imran, Head of Chancery at Pakistan’s Mission in Nigeria, said there was considerable potential to expand bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, education and other key sectors. He underscored the importance of strengthening business-to-business engagement to unlock new opportunities for both countries.Dr Amina Khan, Director of the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA), highlighted the centre’s commitment to deepening Pakistan’s intellectual engagement with Africa and promoting greater understanding of the continent. She stressed the importance of sustained dialogue, shared learning and stronger partnerships with African countries.In his concluding remarks, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman of the ISSI Board of Governors, described Nigeria as the “Giant of Africa” and praised its energy, talent and ambition. He commended CAMEA and the Nigerian Mission for organising the event and reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The National Day celebration was jointly organised by CAMEA at ISSI and the Pakistan Africa Institute for Development and Research (PAIDAR). The event brought together diplomats, policymakers and researchers to discuss opportunities for strengthening Pakistan–Nigeria relations and advancing broader engagement between Pakistan and Africa.
