Nigeria and Poland Discuss Potential Alliance in Key Areas, Including Digital Technology and Military Cooperation

Vice President Kashim Shettima affirmed that the Nigerian government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, is poised to strengthen its economic ties with the Republic of Poland across various sectors, including defence cooperation, digital economy, and agriculture, where Poland has demonstrated a notable comparative advantage.

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This sentiment was expressed during a courtesy visit by Dr Krzysztof Gawkowski, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Affairs of the Republic of Poland, to the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.

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Senator Shettima emphasized that Nigeria is receptive to business opportunities, highlighting the significant economic reforms implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu since assuming office over two years ago, which have unlocked the country's full economic potential.

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Key reforms include the liberalization of the foreign exchange market, the removal of subsidies on petroleum products, and the harmonization of tax laws to prevent overtaxation of companies operating in Nigeria, thereby creating an environment conducive to improved relations in critical areas.

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Vice President Shettima further emphasized the potential for a strategic partnership with Poland, given the country's leadership in industries such as ship-building, maritime economy, defence, digital economy, and other sectors.

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He noted that there is ample opportunity for enhanced, mutually beneficial business relations between Nigeria and Poland, with a focus on fostering a truly beneficial relationship rather than relying on aid from other countries.

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The Vice President praised Poland's impressive development trajectory, describing it as one of Europe's most progressive and strategic nations, and assured Dr Gawkowski of improved cooperation between the governments and peoples of Nigeria and Poland.

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Earlier in the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Dr Gawkowski stated that Nigeria has long been Poland's most strategic partner in Africa, citing the country's vast demographic and technological potential as a key factor in their development and long-term cooperation.

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Dr Gawkowski expressed optimism that his visit would mark the beginning of a new era of cooperation in areas such as the economy, innovation, and digitization, underscoring the potential for a strengthened partnership between the two nations.