Nigeria and the State of Palestine have reaffirmed their longstanding diplomatic relations and commitment to closer consular and humanitarian cooperation, with renewed focus on the worsening humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, on Tuesday, in received the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Nigeria, His Excellency Muhannad Halmouri, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
The engagement formed part of ongoing diplomatic consultations aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between both countries, while also providing a platform to review consular matters, humanitarian concerns and regional developments of mutual interest.
During the meeting, Ambassador Halmouri conveyed warm greetings from the Palestinian leadership and expressed deep appreciation for Nigeria’s consistent and principled support for the Palestinian cause over the decades. He recalled the historic roots of Nigeria–Palestine relations, dating back to the era of late Palestinian leader, President Yasser Arafat, and commended Nigeria’s unwavering moral and diplomatic stance at international fora.
A major focus of the discussions was the humanitarian situation in Gaza and other Palestinian territories. The Palestinian envoy briefed the Minister on prevailing conditions, including ongoing security challenges and restrictions on humanitarian access, while acknowledging Nigeria’s constructive role and support for peaceful resolution of the conflict in line with international law and ethical standards.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Halmouri disclosed the Palestinian Government’s interest in a possible official visit by the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Nigeria. He noted that such a visit could feature high-level engagements and interactions with Nigeria’s National Assembly, in accordance with established diplomatic protocols.
In his response, Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring solidarity with the Palestinian people and reiterated the country’s commitment to justice, peaceful coexistence and respect for international law.
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He assured the Palestinian Ambassador that the concerns raised would be given due consideration through appropriate diplomatic and administrative channels, consistent with Nigeria’s foreign policy principles.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, underscoring the warm and enduring relations between Nigeria and the State of Palestine, as well as both countries’ shared commitment to sustained dialogue, cooperation and peaceful engagement.
The statement was signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, ANIPR, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
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