The Nigerian and Venezuelan governments have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations, with a focus on advancing bilateral cooperation and preparations for the Second Session of the Nigeria–Venezuela Joint Commission.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the position was reached during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, Alberto Castellar Padilla.
Originally scheduled for June 2026, the Nigeria–Venezuela Joint Commission has been rescheduled to a later date.
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Both countries cited emerging administrative developments in their respective nations as the reason for the adjustment.
However, they emphasised that the decision was not an indefinite postponement, but a strategic step to allow for more thorough preparation and effective participation.
The two sides highlighted the importance of the Joint Commission as a key platform for strengthening collaboration across critical sectors, including agriculture, oil and gas, energy, mining, manufacturing, and information and communication technology.
Strong Diplomatic Ties
Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong diplomatic ties with Venezuela, expressing solidarity with the country’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms.
He also welcomed recent positive developments in Venezuela’s economy, particularly the easing of sanctions on key financial institutions, noting that such progress could enhance bilateral cooperation.
To ensure a productive outcome when the Commission reconvenes, both countries agreed to establish a joint technical committee.
The committee will be tasked with reviewing existing agreements, updating outdated frameworks, and coordinating necessary documentation ahead of the meeting.
A new date for the session will be announced after consultations are concluded.
Nigeria and Venezuela also reiterated their shared commitment to strengthening their longstanding partnership, promoting South-South cooperation, and jointly addressing emerging global challenges through sustained diplomatic engagement.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries date back to 1965 and have continued to evolve through political dialogue, economic engagement, and cultural exchange over the decades.