In a significant meeting in Doha, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria expressed to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani of Qatar that Nigeria remains a top-tier investment hub, despite a few opposing voices.
The meeting, which took place on Sunday, saw the two nations establishing cooperative agreements across key sectors including education, employment, business growth, investment attraction, youth development, mining, tourism, and sports.
Despite the Nigerian government’s announcement of signing multiple agreements with Qatar, NN News Media reports that no confirmation of such agreements could be found on Qatar’s official government website. This discrepancy raises questions about the validity of the claimed agreements.
However, Ajuri Ngelale, Tinubu’s spokesperson, released a statement highlighting the president’s readiness to receive Qatari investors and his administration’s commitment to driving reforms in innovation, investment returns, and multiculturalism.
Tinubu praised the potential of Nigerian youth, stating, “Our people are our greatest asset. Nigerian youth are energetic, talented, and confident. They are invaluable partners for Qatar’s industry—educated, dependable, and enthusiastic contributors. The actions of a minority cannot tarnish the reputation of the majority. Nigerian youth are ready to be mobilized for the mutual benefit of both countries.”
He applauded Qatar’s developmental progress and assured that Nigeria provides unparalleled investment returns. Despite current short-term challenges, he confirmed that Nigeria’s government reflects the dynamism and talent of its people, implementing effective solutions.
Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar, reciprocated these sentiments, expressing openness to Nigeria’s investment proposals. He praised the capabilities of the Nigerian people and emphasized the importance of utilizing this potential domestically. He also pledged to send a delegation to Nigeria after Ramadan to investigate investment opportunities.
Following their discussions, the leaders signed seven bilateral agreements across various sectors. President Tinubu designated Mr. Wale Edun, the Coordinating Minister of the Economy and Minister of Finance, to lead the government’s engagement with Qatari authorities on identifying and executing investments.
During the bilateral talks, Dr. Dele Alake, the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, presented an overview of Nigeria’s abundant high-grade minerals, including lithium, highlighting opportunities for local mineral processing and value addition within the sector.
