President Tinubu Sets Off From Abuja on State Visit to Türkiye

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Abuja, Nigeria — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu departed Abuja on Monday afternoon, commencing a state visit to the Republic of Türkiye aimed at reinforcing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

The presidential jet took off from Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at approximately 2:05 p.m., marking the beginning of what officials describe as a crucial diplomatic engagement.

According to a statement released on Sunday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the visit seeks to build on longstanding cordial relations and explore fresh avenues for collaboration in areas such as security, education, social development, innovation and aviation — areas deemed essential for mutual growth.

The trip also follows an official visit to Nigeria by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in October 2021, which both governments say laid a firm foundation for stronger bilateral engagement.

While in Türkiye, President Tinubu is expected to hold high-level political and diplomatic discussions with his Turkish counterparts. These talks will focus on shared interests in finance, communications, trade and investment, according to the presidency.

A series of memoranda of understanding (MoUs) are anticipated to be signed during the visit, covering collaborative efforts in scientific research, energy, technical cooperation, media and communications, as well as military cooperation and protocol arrangements.

In addition to official talks, a Nigeria–Türkiye business forum is planned, bringing together investors and business leaders from both countries to identify and expand mutually beneficial opportunities.

President Tinubu is travelling with a sizeable delegation of senior government officials, including cabinet ministers and key security advisers, underscoring the strategic importance placed on the visit.

The presidency stated that the President is expected to return to Nigeria at the conclusion of the visit, although a detailed itinerary and return date have not been publicly disclosed.