Abuja, June 25, 2026 – Economic relations between Nigeria and the Philippines have witnessed remarkable growth in recent years, with bilateral trade recording a significant increase as both countries intensify efforts to strengthen commercial and diplomatic cooperation.
The Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole J. Mellejor, revealed this during activities marking the 128th Independence Anniversary of the Republic of the Philippines, organised by the embassy in Abuja.
According to the ambassador, trade transactions between the two countries expanded from about 47 million dollars in 2023 to approximately 300 million dollars in 2025.
He noted that Nigeria and the Philippines have continued to enjoy friendly diplomatic relations and are exploring additional areas of collaboration that would deliver mutual economic benefits.
Mellejor said both nations were committed to deepening partnerships in key sectors, including education, commerce and investment.
“Although the current trade volume may still be considered relatively modest, the steady growth recorded over the past three years demonstrates strong prospects for future expansion.
“The increase amounts to roughly 700 per cent, and we are determined to promote stronger business linkages between companies in both countries,” he said.
The envoy also announced plans to establish a Nigeria-Philippines Business Council aimed at improving business coordination and creating more opportunities for trade and investment.
According to him, the proposed council will provide a structured platform for entrepreneurs and investors from both countries to collaborate and maximise available opportunities.
Speaking on educational cooperation, Mellejor said more than 9,000 Nigerian students are currently enrolled in higher institutions across the Philippines.
He described people-to-people interactions as one of the strongest aspects of bilateral relations, adding that cultural exchanges between both countries continue to flourish.
He observed that Nigerian Afrobeats music enjoys considerable popularity in the Philippines, while Filipino television dramas have attracted a growing audience in Nigeria.
Also speaking at the event, Babagana Wakili, Chief of Protocol at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing cooperation with the Philippines.
Wakili commended members of the Filipino community in Nigeria for their contributions to national development, particularly in the healthcare, education and technology sectors.
He said the dedication and expertise demonstrated by Filipinos living and working in Nigeria have earned widespread appreciation from both the government and citizens.
The foreign affairs official added that Nigeria remains interested in expanding collaboration with the Philippines in areas such as agriculture, energy, investment, labour mobility and human capacity development.
He expressed optimism that stronger partnerships between the two countries would support sustainable growth and improve the welfare of their citizens.
The anniversary celebration attracted diplomats, government representatives, members of the Filipino community, business leaders and other stakeholders, reflecting the growing ties between both nations.