The Special Adviser to the President on Media and Policy Communication, Daniel Bwala, has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ongoing state visit to Türkiye as a strategic engagement designed to deliver tangible benefits for Nigeria.
Speaking in an interview on the President’s arrival, Bwala said the visit was undertaken at the invitation of the Turkish government, noting that it reflects Nigeria’s growing influence in Africa and Tinubu’s standing among global leaders.
“This is not just another trip; it is a strategic visit,” Bwala said. “Nigeria is a country of influence in Africa, and the President is a leader whose voice counts globally.”
He said discussions during the visit are centred on defence, security and economic cooperation, adding that key ministers accompanying the President have been scheduled for sector-specific bilateral talks with their Turkish counterparts.
Bwala linked the visit to Nigeria’s recent diplomatic gains, including renewed engagement with the United Arab Emirates, saying Tinubu’s leadership has helped rebuild confidence and strengthen international partnerships.
Türkiye visit key to boosting counterterrorism, says APC chieftain
A security expert and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has also described President Tinubu’s visit to Türkiye as a strategic opportunity to deepen counterterrorism efforts and expand military cooperation amid mounting security challenges.
In a statement signed by his media aide, Rasheed Abubakar, Mumuni said the engagement provides Nigeria with an opportunity to leverage Türkiye’s growing influence in defence manufacturing, intelligence sharing and counterterrorism operations.
He noted that Türkiye’s experience in combating insurgency, securing porous borders and managing complex security threats offers valuable lessons for Nigeria, while advocating structured defence dialogue and transparent procurement frameworks between both countries.
Mumuni warned against overdependence on partners whose policies could restrict access to critical military equipment, saying sustained cooperation with Türkiye could help Nigeria overcome past limitations caused by embargoes and bureaucratic delays.
He added that improved military collaboration would enhance training, technology transfer and local defence production in Nigeria, urging Nigerians to support the diplomatic engagement.
According to him, effective international alliances, combined with domestic reforms, remain essential for building a modern, professional and people-centred security system capable of tackling contemporary threats.
