Nigeria, Palestine Move to Strengthen Consular Cooperation and Diplomatic Engagements

Nigeria and the State of Palestine have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening consular and humanitarian cooperation.
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, on Tuesday, 4 February 2026, received the Ambassador of the State of Palestine to Nigeria, His Excellency Muhannad Halmouri, on a courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Abuja.
The meeting formed part of ongoing diplomatic engagements aimed at enhancing relations between both countries, while also providing an opportunity to review consular matters, humanitarian concerns and regional issues of mutual interest.
During the discussions, Ambassador Halmouri conveyed warm greetings from the Palestinian leadership and expressed appreciation for Nigeria’s longstanding and principled support for the Palestinian cause. He described Nigeria as a consistent moral voice and recalled the historic ties between both countries, dating back to the era of former Palestinian leader, President Yasser Arafat.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza and other Palestinian territories featured prominently in the talks. The Palestinian envoy briefed the Minister on prevailing security challenges and limitations to humanitarian access, while commending Nigeria’s constructive stance and advocacy for a peaceful resolution of the conflict, anchored on international law and ethical principles.
Ambassador Halmouri also conveyed the Palestinian Government’s interest in a proposed official visit by the Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs to Nigeria. He noted that the visit could involve high-level engagements, including possible interaction with Nigeria’s National Assembly, in line with diplomatic practice.
In his response, Ambassador Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s enduring support for the Palestinian people and reiterated the country’s commitment to justice, peaceful coexistence and respect for international law. He assured the Palestinian Ambassador that the issues raised would be considered through appropriate diplomatic and administrative channels, consistent with Nigeria’s foreign policy objectives.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, reflecting the warm relations between Nigeria and the State of Palestine and a shared commitment to sustained dialogue and cooperation.

Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, ANIPR
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja