Nigeria and Mexico have agreed to deepen bilateral relations through the exchange of ministerial visits, in a move aimed at strengthening diplomatic engagement and expanding cooperation across key sectors.
The development was disclosed during a valedictory visit by Mexico’s outgoing Ambassador to Nigeria, Alfredo Miranda Ortiz, to the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, at the end of his diplomatic assignment.
Both countries, regarded as regional powers in Africa and Latin America, established diplomatic relations about five decades ago and have since advanced cooperation in trade, agriculture and cultural exchange.
In a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Dr. Magnus Eze, the minister commended the envoy for his role in strengthening economic cooperation, promoting trade diversification and enhancing diplomatic relations during his nearly four-year tenure.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the need to expand collaboration in culture and tourism, noting shared social values between both nations. She said Nigeria could benefit from Mexico’s experience in tourism development, adding that engagements were already underway with relevant authorities to explore opportunities for deeper cultural partnerships.
She also expressed appreciation for the ambassador’s contributions and wished him success in his future endeavours.
During his tenure, Ortiz facilitated key milestones, including the establishment of the Nigerian–Mexican Chamber of Commerce and the inauguration of a Mexican honorary consulate in Lagos to bolster economic and diplomatic engagement.
Beyond economic ties, the envoy promoted cultural diplomacy and supported initiatives focused on inclusive development, particularly programmes advancing the role of women and girls. He also encouraged structured dialogue across sectors and advocated stronger regional cooperation.
In his remarks, Ortiz expressed gratitude to the Nigerian government for its support, noting that bilateral relations had progressed significantly through sustained diplomatic engagement.
He cited enhanced agricultural cooperation under the SENASICA–NAQS framework, which contributed to increased Nigerian hibiscus exports to Mexico.
The ambassador described Nigeria as a key player in global and regional affairs, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States framework.
He also commended the recent visit of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom, describing it as reflective of Nigeria’s growing global relevance.
Looking ahead, both countries signalled readiness to expand cooperation into emerging sectors such as manufacturing, mining, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals and the digital economy, reaffirming their commitment to sustained political and economic partnership.
