By Toyin Victor, ABUJA
Nigeria’s Ambassador to Israel and Cyprus, Nkechi Linda Ufochukwu, is targeting stronger bilateral ties with Cyprus, with trade, investment and education identified as key areas for expanded cooperation.
Ufochukwu made the commitment after presenting her Letters of Credence to Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides at the Presidential Palace in Nicosia on Friday, formally beginning her diplomatic assignment to the Mediterranean country.
The ambassador conveyed the greetings of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to his Cypriot counterpart and expressed her determination to strengthen relations between both countries throughout her tour of duty.
Welcoming the Nigerian envoy, Christodoulides described relations between Cyprus and Nigeria as rooted in shared history, common principles and enduring ties between their peoples.
He acknowledged Nigeria’s strategic role in West Africa and across the African continent, particularly its contributions to regional dialogue, cooperation, economic integration and stability.
The Cypriot president said his government was ready to work closely with Nigeria to expand trade and investment, strengthen educational cooperation and deepen political dialogue, while addressing shared challenges at bilateral and multilateral levels.
The proposed areas of cooperation could create opportunities for Nigerian businesses, students and professionals while opening avenues for Cypriot investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria.
Ufochukwu is expected to engage Cypriot government officials, business leaders and members of the Nigerian community as both countries seek to translate their diplomatic goodwill into practical benefits for their citizens.