Nigeria and the Republic of Serbia on Tuesday renewed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, with both countries setting their sights on expanded trade, fresh investments and deeper economic cooperation as part of efforts to unlock new business opportunities.

The renewed partnership came to the fore in Abuja when the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, received the Serbian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Jugoslav Vukadinović, on a courtesy visit.

Akume reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to consolidating the long-standing diplomatic relationship between the two countries, describing Nigeria and Serbia as trusted partners whose ties have been built on decades of mutual respect, shared interests and productive cooperation.

He said the Tinubu administration remained committed to fostering strategic international partnerships capable of driving economic growth, investment and sustainable development.

The Serbian envoy, however, signalled Belgrade’s readiness to facilitate the return of Serbian companies to Nigeria, saying his country was eager to participate in new investment opportunities and broaden economic engagement with Africa’s largest economy.

Describing Nigeria as Serbia’s foremost partner on the African continent, Vukadinović traced the relationship between both nations to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, when the former Yugoslavia established close diplomatic ties with the country.

He noted that the two nations also share a common history through the Non-Aligned Movement, where Yugoslavia was a founding member while Nigeria played a leading role.

“Serbia has always supported Nigeria and considers Nigeria its number one partner in Africa. Our friendship dates back to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, and we are determined to build on this strong foundation to take our relations to a much higher level,” he said.

The ambassador recalled the significant footprint of Serbian companies in Nigeria’s infrastructure development, citing landmark projects including the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, the National Assembly Complex, the Kano State Ministerial Complex, hospitals, electrification projects in over 60 communities, irrigation schemes, dam construction and sports facilities in Akwa Ibom State.

According to him, Serbia is ready to support the return of its businesses to Nigeria while positioning itself as a strategic gateway for Nigerian exporters and investors seeking access to Southeastern European markets.

“We are ready to bring our companies back to Nigeria. Serbia is eager to develop stronger economic relations with Nigeria and to serve as a bridge for Nigeria into Southeastern Europe,” he added.

The meeting highlighted the growing emphasis by both governments on translating decades of diplomatic goodwill into stronger commercial partnerships, increased investment flows and mutually beneficial economic cooperation.