The Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Nigeria, Mehmet Poroy, has called for stronger economic and investment cooperation between Türkiye and Lagos State, urging the state government to sustain policies that encourage foreign investment and expand opportunities for Turkish businesses.
Poroy made the appeal on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, at the State House, Alausa, Ikeja.
The ambassador said the visit formed part of efforts by the Turkish government to strengthen bilateral relations with Nigeria following President Bola Tinubu’s visit to Türkiye earlier this year.
He explained that Ankara was committed to expanding economic engagement with Nigeria, particularly through Lagos, the country’s commercial and financial centre.
He appealed to the Lagos State Government to consider Turkish firms for future infrastructure and development projects, noting that Turkish companies possess the technical expertise, capacity and experience required to execute major projects.
According to him, deeper collaboration between Lagos and Türkiye would promote sustainable economic growth, create employment opportunities and facilitate technology transfer.
Amb. Poroy also disclosed that members of the Turkish delegation would hold separate meetings with the leadership of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry to strengthen existing business relationships and explore fresh investment opportunities between Turkish and Nigerian businesses.
Responding, Deputy Governor Hamzat reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to strengthening economic and trade ties with Türkiye, describing the existing relationship as productive and beneficial.
He noted that Turkish companies have maintained a strong presence in Lagos for many years, particularly in the construction sector, where several firms have handled major government projects as contractors.
“We have been working with Turkish companies for many years. Several of them are involved in construction projects and have served as contractors to the Lagos State Government. This relationship has been beneficial, and we believe the time has come to deepen it,” Dr. Hamzat said.
The deputy governor highlighted Lagos’ position as Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, saying the state’s vibrant economy, entrepreneurial culture and growing population continue to make it one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations.
He expressed confidence that stronger collaboration with Türkiye would open new opportunities in commerce, infrastructure development and other strategic sectors capable of driving economic growth.
Dr. Hamzat assured the Turkish delegation of the Lagos State Government’s readiness to engage further with Turkish investors and institutions to identify new areas of cooperation that would deliver mutual benefits to both sides.
Sponsored
Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
Global Muslim Personalities of the Year 2024/2025
