The Philippines has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic relations with Nigeria, highlighting a sharp increase in bilateral trade and growing cooperation in education, business and cultural exchanges.
Speaking at the celebration of the Philippines’ 128th Independence Day in Abuja, Philippine Ambassador to Nigeria, Mersole J. Mellejor, said trade between both countries had expanded significantly in recent years, rising from about $47 million in 2023 to nearly $300 million in 2025.
“The level of bilateral trade is modest by today’s standards but has shown remarkable potential,” Mellejor said. “From 47 million dollars in 2023 to 2025 worth 300 million dollars, that’s about 700 percent increase in the last three years.”
The ambassador disclosed that efforts were underway to establish a Nigeria-Philippines Business Council to provide a structured platform for businesses in both countries and unlock new investment opportunities. He said both nations could leverage their young, highly educated and technology-driven populations to boost economic growth.
Mellejor also highlighted the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries, noting that more than 9,000 Nigerians are currently studying in the Philippines. He added that Filipino professionals and workers continue to contribute to Nigeria’s economy, while Nigerian culture, sports and entertainment have gained popularity in the Southeast Asian nation.
“We remain focused on encouraging partnerships between Philippine and Nigerian companies to enable both countries to leverage on their common strengths,” he said.
The envoy described Nigeria as one of the Philippines’ “all-weather friends,” stressing that both countries have maintained cordial diplomatic relations since establishing formal ties and continue to support each other on issues relating to peace, sustainable development, migrant workers’ rights, gender equality and environmental protection.
Representing Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs at the event, a senior ministry official praised the Philippines’ democratic achievements and growing global influence. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the Asian nation in trade, investment, agriculture, energy, labour mobility and capacity building.
“Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation with the Philippines in areas such as trade and investment, agriculture, energy, labour mobility and capacity building,” the official said.
The Nigerian government also commended the Filipino community in the country for its contributions, particularly in the health, education and technology sectors, and pledged continued collaboration to strengthen relations between both nations.
