The recent inauguration of the Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the Hague, Netherlands, marks a significant milestone in the economic relations between Nigeria and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. According to Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, this development sets a new tone and foundation for stronger economic ties between both countries.
Speaking at the celebration of the birthday of His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Kingdom of the Netherlands at the Netherlands embassy in Abuja, Kalu reaffirmed the commitment of the House of Representatives to expanding economic cooperation, friendship, and bonds between Nigeria and the Netherlands. He emphasized that both countries can pursue common objectives and closer diplomatic goals to achieve a prosperous, sustainable, and peaceful future for their people.
The Deputy Speaker commended the Netherlands Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Wouter Plomp, for his efforts in strengthening diplomatic ties and promoting economic cooperation between both nations. He also acknowledged the Netherlands’ support for Nigeria’s development efforts, particularly in trade, agriculture, water management, and renewable energy.
The Nigerian-Dutch Business and Investment Forum aims to promote collaboration and partnerships in key sectors, including agriculture and water management. This initiative aligns with President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to creating a business-friendly environment through various reforms, such as foreign exchange market transparency, fuel subsidy removal, and seamless profit repatriation for foreign companies.
As Nigeria and the Netherlands celebrate their long history of friendship and cooperation, this new development signals a promising future for economic ties between both nations.
Babs A.
LV