Iran has renewed its pledge to strengthen diplomatic and economic cooperation with Nigeria, focusing on strategic partnerships aimed at driving shared growth, innovation and sustainable development.
Iran’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Mahdavi Raja, made this commitment on Monday in Abuja during events marking the country’s 47th anniversary celebration, known as the Victory of the Islamic Revolution.
He described both nations as key regional actors bound by enduring friendship, mutual respect and common aspirations, noting that Nigeria occupies a central position in Iran’s foreign policy priorities.
Raja said Iran’s strengths in sectors such as energy, agriculture, healthcare, education, engineering, science and technology placed it in a strong position to support Nigeria’s development agenda.
He added that Nigeria’s large population, skilled workforce, expansive market and strategic influence in West Africa created significant opportunities for mutually rewarding partnerships.
The ambassador also thanked the Federal Government, members of the diplomatic community and invited guests for their support and participation in the celebration.
In his remarks, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, said Iran remained an important partner in the Middle East and a respected member of the global community.
Represented by the Director of the Regions Department, Bukar Hamman, Tuggar noted that relations between both countries were anchored on mutual respect, dialogue and constructive engagement through bilateral and multilateral platforms, including the United Nations.
He stated that economic ties between Nigeria and Iran had continued to grow, spanning areas such as energy products, agriculture, manufacturing inputs and consumer goods, reflecting the complementary strengths of both economies.
Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, and the resolution of disputes through dialogue in line with international law.
Also speaking, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, described Iran as a strategic partner, particularly in trade, investment and economic self-reliance initiatives.
He revealed that an Iranian firm was establishing a lead and zinc processing facility in Bauchi to develop a full industrial value chain, rather than exporting raw materials.
The governor added that talks were ongoing with Iranian investors in agriculture and livestock development, including modern ranching and breeding technologies aimed at boosting productivity.
According to him, the engagement was intended to strengthen bilateral cooperation and reassure Iranian investors of Nigeria’s conducive business environment.
Earlier, Raja said the anniversary provided an opportunity for reflection, renewal and enhanced global engagement.
He explained that the 1979 Islamic Revolution symbolised the determination of the Iranian people to reclaim sovereignty, independence and national dignity, marking the beginning of popular governance.
The ambassador noted that despite decades of sanctions and external pressure, Iran had achieved notable progress by leveraging domestic capacity, unity and skilled human resources.
He listed advances in science, technology, healthcare, industrial production, non-oil exports, infrastructure development and economic diversification as key milestones.
Raja added that Iran was pursuing balanced diplomacy rooted in dialogue, cooperation and multilateralism, while expanding ties with neighbouring states, emerging economies and international institutions.
He said the country remained committed to peace, stability and sustainable development, while upholding respect for sovereignty and constructive engagement.