Lagos: Nigeria and Indonesia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral trade and investment to support sustainable economic growth. The pledge was made during the fourth Nigerian-Indonesian Investment and Trade Forum in Lagos, underscoring the mutual interest of both nations in enhancing their economic partnership.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the forum, themed ‘Unlocking Potentials and Building a Sustainable Economic Future’, was organized by the Nigerian-Indonesian Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Mr. Ishmael Balogun, President of NICCI, emphasized the chamber’s role as a pivotal platform for driving investment between the two countries. He highlighted that trade between Nigeria and Indonesia has surged from $1.73 billion in 2019 to over $6 billion in 2023.
Balogun encouraged Indonesian companies to tap into Nigeria’s potential in sectors such as energy, agriculture, healthcare, manufacturing, renewable energy, and technology. He emphasized that the partnership serves as a bridge connecting Africa and Asia, linking ideas with investment and policy with progress.
Ambassador-designate Bambang Suharto reiterated Indonesia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in agribusiness, healthcare, renewable energy, and manufacturing. Suharto noted the shared values of development and progress that bind the two nations and commended NICCI for enhancing diplomatic and private-sector engagement, citing the increasing trade as evidence of stronger ties.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, represented by Princess Zahrah Audu Mustapha, highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s business climate, further supporting the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and Indonesia in fostering economic growth.