The Bangladesh High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr. Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, has bemoaned the low bilateral trade between his country and Nigeria, saying its below grue potential.
Kabir however said his focus is on strengthening partnership between both countries.
He spoke in Abuja on the Occasion of the 55th Anniversary of Independence & National Day of Bangladesh.
Kabir said there are lots of areas both countries can collaborate, especially in trade and agriculture amongst other.
He said: “Bilateral trade between our two countries has grown steadily yet remains well below its true potential.
“Bangladesh offers competitively priced, high-quality products in textiles and garments, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, jute goods, processed foods, and ICT services. Nigeria, with its vast market, energy resources, and agricultural depth, presents significant opportunities of bilateral trade. Contract farming in agriculture is a compelling new avenue — Bangladesh’s expertise in high-yield, climate-adaptive cultivation, combined with Nigeria’s vast arable land and expanding agro-processing.”
To address the low bilateral trade situation, the envoy said his country “is placing renewed focus on strengthening our partnerships in Africa, particularly with Nigeria—a country of immense dynamism, influence, and opportunity.”
He also added that Bangladesh and Nigeria share longstanding friendly relations, grounded in shared historical experiences, large and youthful populations, democratic aspirations, and a strong commitment to multilateralism. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties, our two countries have worked closely within the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the D-8, and the Commonwealth. Bangladesh deeply values Nigeria’s friendship and steadfast support in multilateral forums — a partnership rooted in our shared commitment to South–South cooperation and to advancing the collective interests of the Global South.”
Beyond trade, the envoy said both countries have considerable scope “for cooperation in education and skills development, digital innovation, technical training, and defense — particularly professional military training and peacekeeping. People-to-people contacts, cultural exchanges, academic collaboration, and youth engagement remain essential pillars of our bilateral relationship.”
Kabir also commended Bangladesh nationals operating in Nigeria for living above board, describing them as “exemplary ambassadors of our nation”.
“Your hard work and integrity contribute significantly to the economies of Bangladesh and Nigeria and strengthen the bond between our peoples,” he added.
The envoy also noted that 55 years down the line, Bangladesh has become a model of socio-economic development and a beacon of hope in the Global South with a nominal GDP approaching half a trillion US dollars and ranking among the 35 largest economies in the world.
In his remarks, Mr Bukar Hamman, Director of Regions at the Nigeria Ministry of Foreign Affairs said both countries believe in multilateralism, a commitment to peacemaking and peacekeeping, and a shared aspiration for inclusive development.
He added, “Both our nations have contributed significantly to United Nations peace operations, demonstrating mutual dedication to global peace and security.
“In recent years, our bilateral relations have continued to grow, particularly in areas such as trade, agriculture, education, defence cooperation, and defence cooperation. We welcome the expanding presence of Bangladesh business in Nigeria and encourage even deeper engagement between our private sectors.”
He stressed that “There is vast potential for collaboration in textile, pharmaceuticals, ICT and renewable energy sectors, where Bangladesh has developed notable expertise. As we look to the future, Nigeria remains committed to strengthening our ties with Bangladesh. We believe that enhanced cooperation between our two countries will not only contribute to our people, but also contribute to brother-south-south cooperation and collaboration and global development efforts.”
He also noted that the celebration is not only about honouring Bangladesh’s trust, it is also about recognising its future, one field for peace, innovation and continued progress.”
He noted that Nigeria stands with Bangladesh as a trusted partner and friend.
