By Ebi Kesiena
Nigeria has reaffirmed its enduring commitment to the Palestinian people and signaled renewed momentum in bilateral relations and consular cooperation following high-level diplomatic talks between both countries.
The engagement took place during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, by the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Nigeria, Muhannad Halmouri, and was disclosed in a statement issued by Kimiebi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
At the meeting held on wednesday, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, received the Palestinian envoy as part of Nigeria’s ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening ties with the State of Palestine. The discussions provided an opportunity to review bilateral relations as well as consular, humanitarian, and regional issues of mutual interest.
Ambassador Halmouri conveyed warm greetings from the Palestinian leadership and expressed deep appreciation for Nigeria’s longstanding and principled support for the Palestinian cause. He recalled the historic roots of Nigeria–Palestine relations, tracing back to the era of late Palestinian leader, President Yasser Arafat, and commended Nigeria’s consistent moral and diplomatic stance at international fora.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza and other Palestinian territories featured prominently in the discussions. The Palestinian envoy briefed the Minister on prevailing conditions, including security challenges and restrictions on humanitarian access, while acknowledging Nigeria’s constructive role and support for peaceful resolution of the conflict, anchored on international law and ethical considerations.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Halmouri conveyed the interest of the Palestinian Government in a prospective official visit by the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Nigeria. He noted that such a visit could involve high-level engagements and possible interaction with Nigeria’s National Assembly, in line with diplomatic protocol.
In his response, Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and reiterated the country’s commitment to justice, peaceful coexistence, and respect for international law. He assured the Palestinian Ambassador that the issues raised would be carefully examined through appropriate diplomatic and administrative channels, consistent with Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, reflecting the warm and enduring relations between Nigeria and the State of Palestine, as well as a shared resolve to sustain dialogue and deepen cooperation.
