By Abuja, Nigeria
Nigeria and the Republic of Austria have reaffirmed their shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations, strengthening multilateral cooperation, and advancing mutually beneficial partnerships across key strategic sectors.
This follows a high-level engagement between the Honourable Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and the Secretary-General of the Federal Ministry of International and European Affairs of the Republic of Austria, His Excellency Nikolaus Marschik on Thursday 22nd January 2026.
According to a statement issued today by the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the meeting provided an important diplomatic platform for both sides to review the trajectory of Nigeria–Austria relations, exchange perspectives on evolving global and regional challenges, and identify practical pathways for expanding cooperation in areas of common interest.
”It took place against the backdrop of significant geopolitical shifts, economic realignments, and security concerns affecting Europe, Africa, and the wider international system, underscoring the relevance of sustained dialogue and principled diplomacy.”
The Minister observed that beyond formal diplomacy, cultural familiarity and mutual goodwill have contributed to positive perceptions and enduring affinity between Nigerians and Austria, reinforcing the foundation upon which the relationship continues to grow.
While outlining Nigeria’s priorities, the Minister emphasised the country’s commitment to expanding economic cooperation with Austria, particularly in trade and investment. She identified renewable energy, green and environmental technologies, food security, agro-processing, infrastructure development, digital innovation, and information and communications technology as strategic sectors where Austrian expertise and private-sector participation could support Nigeria’s development agenda. She encouraged Austrian companies to explore opportunities within Nigeria’s Special Economic Zones and to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area as a gateway to broader regional markets, noting that Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms and diversification efforts are designed to attract long-term, value-driven investment.
The discussions also highlighted the importance of cultural, educational, and academic cooperation as enduring pillars of bilateral relations. The Minister recalled existing memoranda of understanding on cultural exchange and noted the growing interest among Nigerian students and professionals in studying and training in Austria. She expressed Nigeria’s readiness to expand scholarship opportunities, academic partnerships, and institutional collaboration between Nigerian and Austrian universities, research institutions, and cultural bodies, recognising education and cultural diplomacy as critical drivers of mutual understanding and sustainable partnership.
In his response, the leader of the Austrian delegation, His Excellency Nikolaus Marschik expressed appreciation for the warm reception and candid dialogue, reaffirming Austria’s respect for Nigeria’s leadership role on the African continent and its significant demographic, economic, and strategic weight. He outlined Austria’s ongoing efforts to develop a modern and comprehensive Africa strategy, driven by the conviction that engagement with African partners must be based on equality, listening, and mutual learning.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria’s firm commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and diplomacy as essential tools for managing global crises and preserving international peace and security.
