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ABUJA, Nigeria (NAN) - Nigeria and Sweden reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing bilateral relations through increased trade, sustainable development, gender equality, and cultural exchange during a meeting on Monday.
The agreement was established in a discussion between Vice President Kashim Shettima and Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Victoria is on a three-day official visit to Nigeria aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
Shettima emphasized that Nigeria will remain a reliable ally of Sweden throughout all circumstances.
He stated that both countries are set for a partnership "grounded in innovation, driven by people, and informed by our mutual commitment to elevate communities and secure prosperity for future generations."
Shettima characterized the Crown Princess's visit as a gateway to fostering deeper institutional relations and enhancing cultural exchange between the two countries.
He highlighted that the visit represents not just a continuation of discussions but a new chapter for the two nations.
"This moment unlocks the potential for stronger institutional ties, stimulates business-to-business cooperation, and supports greater cultural exchange. We are particularly enthusiastic about areas such as renewable energy, precision agriculture, healthcare innovation, and gender inclusion. Sweden has substantial expertise to offer, and Nigeria is eager to learn," noted the Vice President.
He recalled his significant engagement in Stockholm in October 2024, representing President Bola Tinubu, and pointed out that the visit marked a pivotal moment in the bilateral relations between the countries.
"The warm reception from the Swedish government and the insightful discussions we held with Your Royal Highness, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, and leaders of Swedish industries energized our return to Nigeria with a new momentum—one that has since resulted in tangible benefits for both our peoples.
Our meetings in Sweden in 2024 were not merely ceremonial; they acted as catalysts, opening pathways to strategic collaborations and renewing our pledge to make Nigeria a fertile ground for innovation, investment, and sustainable development."
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Nigeria and Ericsson to support 5G innovation in Nigeria was one of the most significant outcomes of that visit. Mr. Shettima stated that beyond the digital sphere, Swedish companies continue to invest in Nigeria’s human capital and sustainable development, praising SchoolTry, a Swedish edtech company, for its ongoing efforts in improving educational outcomes in Nigeria.
Shettima conveyed to the Crown Princess that the previously mentioned partnerships serve as "building blocks in a larger framework of cooperation," positioning Sweden as a vital partner in Nigeria’s path towards digital inclusion, educational reform, sustainable agriculture, and clean energy transition.
Earlier, Victoria expressed enthusiasm about enhancing relations between Sweden and Nigeria, indicating that the current era requires strengthened collaboration. "It would be fantastic for Sweden to establish a physical trade office in Nigeria, something that should have been done long ago," she remarked.
Sweden’s Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carlson, also acknowledged the growing collaboration between the two nations. "We see many opportunities in Nigeria, especially in innovation and the technology sector, where mutual learning is possible. This cooperation will contribute to a brighter future for our people," he stated.
He announced the official opening of Sweden’s trade office in Nigeria scheduled for Tuesday, further fortifying a bilateral relationship established over 65 years. "The MoU signed during your visit to Stockholm is a testament to the strong business relations between our two countries," he added, highlighting that Sweden has set up five innovation hubs across Africa, with the largest located in Lagos.
"There is significant potential in sectors like health, agriculture, and more," he noted. Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, mentioned ongoing discussions with the Crown Princess concerning trade and investment, agriculture, green energy (including solar and green hydrogen), ICT, and business outsourcing, particularly in terms of employment for skilled Nigerian workers.
He indicated that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, through the Technical Aid Corps, plans to collaborate with countries interested in employing Nigerian workers in an organized fashion to mitigate irregular migration.
In a related announcement, Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s resolve to bolster ties with Swedish tech giant, Ericsson, by promptly implementing the previously signed MoU from 2024.
He shared this information while hosting a delegation from Ericsson, led by Patrick Johansson, the company’s senior vice president and head of market area Europe, Middle East, and Africa.
He recalled Ericsson's critical role in Nigeria’s digital transformation and commended its investment in innovation hubs and support for small businesses in the country, emphasizing this as a testament to the firm’s enduring partnership with Nigeria.
"We value our relationship with Sweden and with your company," Mr. Shettima added. "We are a vast nation with a tech-savvy populace. Many of Africa’s tech unicorns are based in Nigeria. The future lies with Nigeria."
Johansson stressed the necessity of deepening Ericsson’s collaboration with Nigeria through grassroots innovation and entrepreneurship. Additionally, Majda Lahlou Kassi, vice president and head of customer units, West and South Africa at Ericsson Middle East & Africa, stated that Nigeria holds a significant position in the company's history, asserting that Ericsson believes in Nigeria’s potential and is proud of the existing relationship, with promising prospects for growth in the local market and the establishment of a digital culture among the populace.
