Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to principled diplomacy, regional stability ,and responsible global partnership as it unveiled its foreign policy outlook for 2026.
Speaking at the New Year Reception for Ambassadors and Heads of Mission in Abuja, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said Nigeria’s diplomacy in the coming year would be anchored on strategic autonomy, regional stability and constructive global engagement.
The minister noted that despite global geopolitical uncertainty, Nigeria would continue to prioritise dialogue over division and cooperation over confrontation.
He highlighted Nigeria’s intensified economic diplomacy in 2025, including investment outreach and sector-focused partnerships, as well as the convening of the West Africa Economic Summit on the margins of the Economic Community of West African States 50th anniversary.
On regional peace and security, Ambassador Tuggar stressed that stability in the Sahel remains a top priority, underscoring the need for outcome-driven security cooperation and democratic resilience.
“Beyond recent political developments, we remain neighbours with a shared responsibility for the safety and prosperity of our peoples. This is our region, and we must ensure that it works for all.” He said
He recalled the launch of the Regional Partnership for Democracy in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme, aimed at strengthening democratic institutions across West Africa and the Sahel.
Turning to the economy, the minister said improved macroeconomic indicators, a unified foreign exchange regime and modernised tax laws are positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for long-term investment.
“We will therefore continue expanding engagement across the Global South while deepening ties with Europe, North America, Asia, and other longstanding partners in trade and investment.” He added
He also assured the diplomatic community of Nigeria’s continued openness to cooperation as the country enters a new democratic phase following the release of the electoral timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism, Ambassador Tuggar called for support for Nigeria’s international candidatures, including its bid for non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council in 2030.
He emphasised that diplomacy remains central to building trust, reducing misunderstandings and advancing shared prosperity.