Nigeria and the State of Palestine have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding consular cooperation following talks held in Abuja.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, received the Palestinian Ambassador to Nigeria, Muhannad Halmouri, at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of ongoing diplomatic engagements between both countries.
A statement issued by the ministry said the meeting reviewed consular matters, humanitarian concerns and regional developments of mutual interest, with particular attention on the situation in Gaza.
Ambassador Halmouri conveyed greetings from the Palestinian leadership and thanked Nigeria for what he described as its “longstanding and principled support” for the Palestinian cause.
He recalled that relations between both nations date back to the era of President Yasser Arafat, noting that Nigeria had consistently maintained a strong moral voice on Palestine at international platforms.
Briefing the minister on conditions in Gaza and other Palestinian territories, Halmouri highlighted “ongoing security challenges and constraints on humanitarian access,” while acknowledging Nigeria’s constructive role in advocating for a peaceful resolution in line with international law.
The Palestinian envoy also expressed his government’s interest in a proposed visit by the Palestinian Foreign Minister to Nigeria, which could include high-level engagements and interaction with the National Assembly.
Responding, Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring solidarity with the Palestinian people.
“Nigeria remains committed to justice, peaceful coexistence and respect for international law. The concerns raised will be examined through appropriate diplomatic channels in line with our foreign policy principles,” the minister said.
Both sides described the discussions as cordial and productive, underscoring their shared resolve to sustain dialogue and cooperation.
The statement, signed by the ministry’s spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, said the engagement further reflects the warm relations that have existed between Nigeria and Palestine for decades.
