The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic and economic relationship with the Republic of Serbia, with both countries expressing readiness to expand cooperation in trade, investment and infrastructure development.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, gave the assurance today while receiving the Serbian Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Petar Vulic, during a courtesy visit in Abuja.
Akume described the relationship between Nigeria and Serbia as one founded on mutual respect, shared interests and decades of fruitful diplomatic engagement, stressing that the Federal Government remains committed to deepening bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
The Serbian envoy, Ambassador Vulic, described the relationship as “historic and enduring,” noting that Serbia, as the successor state of the former Yugoslavia, has maintained warm diplomatic ties with Nigeria since the country’s independence in 1960.
He recalled that the former Yugoslavia was among Nigeria’s earliest international partners and that both countries forged a strong bond through the Non-Aligned Movement, where Yugoslavia was a founding member while Nigeria played a leading role.
“Serbia has always supported Nigeria and considers Nigeria its number one partner in Africa. Our friendship dates back to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, and we are determined to build on this strong foundation to take our relations to a much higher level,” Vulic said.
Highlighting Serbia’s contributions to Nigeria’s development, the ambassador cited several landmark projects executed by Serbian companies, including the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, the Kano State Ministerial Complex, the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, sports infrastructure in Akwa Ibom State, hospitals, rural electrification projects across more than 60 locations, irrigation schemes, dam projects, tobacco production and other critical infrastructure.
Vulic said Serbia was prepared to facilitate the return of its companies to Nigeria to pursue fresh investment opportunities and strengthen economic cooperation between the two countries.
He added that Serbia was also willing to serve as a strategic gateway for Nigerian businesses seeking access to markets in Southeastern Europe.
“We are ready to bring our companies back to Nigeria. Serbia is eager to develop stronger economic relations with Nigeria and to serve as a bridge for Nigeria into Southeastern Europe,” the ambassador stated.
The meeting underscored the shared determination of both countries to build on their decades-long friendship by expanding collaboration in commerce, infrastructure, investment and other areas of mutual interest, with the aim of delivering greater economic benefits to their citizens.
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