Turkey seeks improved ties with Nigeria

By Rafiu Ajakaye

LAGOS, Nigeria (AA) - The Turkish government on Monday congratulated Nigeria on the 58th anniversary of its independence, calling for better relations between the two developing nations.

Melih Ulueren, Turkish ambassador to Nigeria said in a statement that Nigeria was among the most important nations in the world by virtue of it being the most populous and the largest economy in Africa.

“I wish Nigeria, which has taken its destiny in its own hands 58 years ago, a continued progress towards achieving a more prosperous future,” Ulueren said.

“Our relations with the African continent have gained momentum in the last decade. We see Nigeria -- the rising power of its region -- as a strategic partner in Africa.”

Ulueren said the visit last year of Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari to Ankara “revealed our common will to deepen our bilateral relations and move forward”.