The Federal Republic of Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to deepening economic and strategic ties with Indonesia, emphasizing the untapped potential and promising opportunities for collaboration between the two nations. This commitment was reaffirmed during the second Indonesia-Africa Forum, held from September 1-3, 2024, in Bali.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, led the Nigerian delegation to the forum’s High-Level Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Joint Leaders Session. Minister Idris stressed Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing cooperation with Indonesia, highlighting mutual benefits in trade, investment, and knowledge exchange. “The Indonesia-Africa Forum is a catalyst for a new era of cooperation, aimed at propelling both our countries toward a brighter and more prosperous future,” Idris stated.
The Minister outlined critical areas for collaboration, including economic transformation, energy and mining, food and health security, and the digital economy. He emphasized that these sectors are fundamental to driving inclusive and sustainable growth for both Nigeria and Indonesia.
The forum, which brought together delegates from 22 African countries and five non-African nations, showcased the significant economic and demographic potential of Africa and Indonesia, representing over 1.7 billion people and a combined GDP of USD 4.4 trillion. The event facilitated dialogue among Heads of State, government officials, business leaders, and stakeholders on enhancing economic cooperation, addressing global challenges, and fostering sustainable development.
Nigeria’s leadership role in advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 was a focal point of discussions. Minister Idris highlighted President Tinubu’s comprehensive national agenda for economic reforms, security, and governance, alongside efforts to enhance regional trade and infrastructure through Nigeria’s leadership in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Nigeria’s active participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was also noted as pivotal for boosting intra-African trade and industrialization.
The forum paid tribute to the 1955 Asia-Africa Forum, known as the Bandung Spirit, which laid the foundation for Asia-Africa relations. Participants called for increased trade, investment, and development cooperation between Africa and Indonesia. Special attention was given to initiatives such as the trans-Saharan Gas pipeline projects between Nigeria, Algeria, and Morocco, highlighting Africa’s potential to move beyond exporting raw materials to becoming a production hub.
The Indonesia-Africa Forum continues to serve as a strategic platform for bolstering economic ties and fostering sustainable development through collaboration in key sectors such as trade, energy, and the digital economy.
