In a strategic push for enhanced international cooperation, Senate President Godswill Akpabio has called for strengthened bilateral relations between Nigeria and Cuba. Akpabio emphasized the need to deepen diplomatic, economic, and cultural exchanges between both nations to foster mutual development and global positioning.
Speaking at a high-level meeting with Cuban representatives in Abuja, Akpabio highlighted the historical connections between the two countries and stressed the importance of leveraging these ties for greater economic and political collaboration. He noted that Cuba’s advancements in healthcare, education, and biotechnology provide significant opportunities for Nigeria to learn and implement best practices.
“We recognize the strides Cuba has made in various sectors, particularly in healthcare and research. Nigeria stands to gain immensely from deepening ties with Cuba, especially in capacity building, medical cooperation, and technology transfer,” Akpabio stated.
Among the potential areas of strengthened partnership, Akpabio underscored:
- Healthcare & Medical Research: Given Cuba’s globally acclaimed healthcare system and pharmaceutical expertise, Nigeria is keen on exploring partnerships in medical research, vaccine production, and public health management.
- Education & Knowledge Exchange: With Cuba’s robust education system, especially in medical sciences, Nigeria is considering sending scholars and professionals for specialized training in Cuban institutions.
- Trade & Investment: Expanding economic cooperation in agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing to stimulate bilateral trade and investment opportunities.
- Science & Technology: Joint research initiatives and technology transfer programs that could enhance Nigeria’s industrial and scientific sectors.
Cuba’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Miriam Morales Palmero, echoed Akpabio’s sentiments, reaffirming her country’s commitment to fostering deeper relations with Africa’s largest economy. She noted that Cuba has a long history of collaboration with Nigeria and is eager to explore new opportunities that benefit both nations.
“We have always shared strong diplomatic ties with Nigeria, and this partnership can grow even stronger through practical collaborations. We are ready to work closely with Nigeria in the areas of healthcare, education, and economic development,” Ambassador Palmero remarked.
The push for stronger ties comes as Nigeria seeks to diversify its international partnerships beyond traditional Western allies. The renewed interest in Cuba aligns with the broader objective of strengthening South-South cooperation, a strategy that encourages stronger ties among developing nations.
Experts have applauded Akpabio’s advocacy, noting that a well-structured bilateral agreement with Cuba could yield significant benefits for Nigeria, particularly in addressing gaps in healthcare and technical education.
As both nations explore ways to deepen relations, stakeholders are optimistic that a formalized framework will soon be established to institutionalize these collaborations, ensuring sustainable and mutually beneficial outcomes for Nigeria and Cuba alike.
