Egypt-Nigeria Cooperation Critical to African Union Goals, Says Atty

The Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Badr Atty, has said enhanced strategic cooperation between Egypt and Nigeria is essential to advancing the objectives of the African Union (AU) and supporting the full implementation of Agenda 2063, the continent’s long-term development framework.

Speaking during a press briefing on Wednesday in Abuja, Dr. Atty stated that both nations, as leading regional powers and key AU members, share a mutual responsibility to drive sustainable peace, economic integration, and security across Africa.

“The partnership between Egypt and Nigeria will not only promote stability and prosperity in our respective countries but will also contribute meaningfully to the collective advancement of the African continent,” Atty said.

The minister cited the countries’ shared membership in multilateral organizations including BRICS, D-8, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), and the United Nations, noting that this multilateral framework provides a robust platform for enhanced cooperation.

Dr. Atty further stressed the importance of joint efforts to reform global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, stating that both countries support a more representative and equitable international governance structure.

On the issue of regional security, the minister underscored the need for coordinated actions to combat transboundary challenges such as terrorism.

He revealed that Egypt is prepared to share its counterterrorism experience with Nigeria, following its domestic successes in addressing similar threats.

“No single country can effectively confront the security challenges Africa faces without collaboration. Terrorism and insecurity undermine development, and both Egypt and Nigeria understand that economic progress requires a secure environment,” Atty added.

The minister noted that deeper cooperation in security, trade, and investment will be pivotal in unlocking the continent’s economic potential under the AfCFTA.

He proposed greater coordination among Egypt (North Africa), Nigeria (West Africa), and South Africa (Southern Africa) to serve as anchors of stability and industrial growth across the continent.

Atty led a delegation comprising representatives of major Egyptian firms operating across multiple sectors including construction, food security, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, oil and gas, and manufacturing.

He confirmed that discussions with Nigerian officials and the private sector are ongoing to enhance bilateral trade and expand joint ventures.

“We are committed to strengthening economic ties with Nigeria. The existing cooperation in defence, trade, cultural exchange, and private sector engagement provides a strong foundation for broader strategic alignment,” he said.

He praised Nigeria’s policy environment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, noting it has improved the operating climate for international businesses and investors.

In addition, Dr. Atty conveyed a message of appreciation from President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to Nigeria for supporting Egypt’s candidate, Dr. Khaled el-Anani, for the position of Director-General of UNESCO.

El-Anani, Egypt’s former Minister of Tourism and Antiquities, is seeking to represent African interests in UNESCO’s global leadership.

The Egyptian minister concluded by stating that both countries are well-positioned to leverage their political goodwill into stronger economic and diplomatic frameworks aligned with Africa’s long-term development vision.