Türkiye has expressed a strong and growing interest in Nigeria, according to the country’s envoy.

The Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has said Türkiye places special importance on Nigeria because both countries face similar security challenges, particularly in the fight against terrorism.

Poroy stated this during an interview in Abuja on Wednesday, noting that Ankara and Abuja share a common interest in developing effective counterterrorism strategies.

He explained that Türkiye has spent years combating different terrorist groups and has built substantial experience and capacity in the process, which it is prepared to share with Nigeria. According to him, this support would include expertise, resources, and defence capabilities.

The ambassador stressed that Nigeria’s success in tackling terrorism is vital not only for the country but also for the stability of West Africa and the African continent at large.

From Türkiye’s perspective, Poroy said Nigeria is unique because both nations are confronting comparable security threats. He noted that while Türkiye has dealt with several terrorist organisations over the years, Nigeria is also battling groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, making cooperation both natural and necessary.

He revealed that Türkiye has significantly developed its defence industry as part of efforts to address insecurity within its borders and the wider region. This progress, he said, has strengthened its armed forces and helped reduce terrorist threats, adding that similar collaboration could benefit Nigeria through close defence industry partnerships.

Poroy said Türkiye is already working with Nigerian authorities to strengthen military cooperation, in line with assurances from the Turkish leadership that Nigeria has Ankara’s full support in its fight against terrorism. He added that beyond supplying military equipment and critical systems, Turkish companies are also partnering with Nigerian institutions on joint local production initiatives.

Beyond security, the envoy said Nigeria’s economic standing also makes it an important partner. He described Nigeria as West Africa’s largest economy and one of Africa’s biggest, noting that such a position commands global attention.

He further highlighted Nigeria’s population of over 230 million people, its economic potential, and the strong case for expanding bilateral trade and investment. According to him, Türkiye views Nigeria as a key strategic partner on the continent and intends to deepen cooperation.

Poroy recalled that relations between both countries date back to the 16th century, during interactions between the Ottoman Empire and the Kanem-Bornu Empire. He added that Türkiye’s decision to open an embassy in Nigeria shortly after independence underscored the long-standing value it places on the relationship.

He said the renewed engagement builds on recent high-level contacts, including President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Türkiye, which further strengthened commitments in security and economic cooperation.