By Ebi Kesiena
The Ambassador of Guinea to Nigeria, Mr Siaka Cissoko, has extended an invitation to Nigerian businesses and investors to explore opportunities in a $20 billion mega infrastructure project currently underway in Guinea, as part of efforts to deepen economic ties between the two West African nations.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by a delegation from the Diplomatic Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DICAN) to the Guinean Embassy in Abuja, Ambassador Cissoko emphasised the importance of Nigeria’s participation in the transformational project, describing it as a golden opportunity for local companies to expand their footprint on the African continent.
“As I speak to you, there is an ongoing mega multibillion-dollar project in Guinea, about $20 billion, that could be handled by Nigerian companies,” he said.
Ambassador Cissoko expressed optimism that this engagement with DICAN would open new channels of communication, increase awareness, and foster collaboration between the private sectors of both countries. He noted that despite the historic and cultural ties between Guinea and Nigeria, many business opportunities have been overlooked due to a lack of information.
“Our businessmen often go to countries like India and Pakistan to look for $5 million to $10 million business opportunities that could easily be sourced in Nigeria. This is simply because they are unaware of what Nigeria offers,” he said, stressing the need to bridge the information gap between both nations.
He highlighted the strategic value of Nigeria’s economic capacity and expressed concern that Guinean businesses tend to underestimate Nigeria’s market due to limited exposure.
The ambassador underscored the significance of strengthening bilateral relations through media partnerships and public diplomacy. He praised DICAN for its professionalism and credibility, stating that the association’s role in disseminating accurate and timely information about business and development could be key in reshaping perceptions and attracting investments.
“Guinea and Nigeria have always enjoyed cordial relations, and with a credible body like DICAN visiting us, I am confident that this partnership will go a long way in informing and encouraging our people to look towards Nigeria for mutually beneficial collaboration,” he said.
Ambassador Cissoko also identified the mining sector as a promising area for cooperation, given that both Guinea and Nigeria are endowed with vast mineral resources.
Meanwhile, DICAN Chairman, Fredrick Idehai, expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting the Guinean Embassy in promoting bilateral relations through constructive media engagement.
