Strengthening Ties: Nigeria-South Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group Explore Enhanced Cooperation with Korean Ambassador

Rep. Nnamdi Ezechi (PDP, Delta), Chairman of the Nigeria-South Korea Parliamentary Friendship Group, opened the discussion by welcoming Ambassador Kim to Nigeria. In his opening remarks, Rep. Ezechi also highlighted the Group’s mandate and its significant role in fostering collaboration between the two countries. He emphasised the Group's commitment to advancing the partnership and supporting initiatives that benefit both countries, aligning with the broader goals set forth by the House Committee on Selection under the leadership of Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, PhD.

Ambassador Kim expressed his pleasure at meeting the members of the Parliamentary Friendship Group and conveyed the strong interest of South Korean industries in Nigeria. He spoke on the establishment of a South Korean-Nigeria Parliamentary Group within the South Korean Parliament as a strategic move to further solidify parliamentary ties and enhance collaborative efforts. The Ambassador assured the Group of South Korea’s continued support and cooperation, reflecting his country’s commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship.

The discussion also covered essential areas of collaboration, including technology transfer, youth empowerment, health interventions, and agricultural development. Members of the Group reiterated the importance of building on the achievements of Ambassador Kim’s predecessor. They discussed various ways to enhance cooperation in these sectors, emphasising the potential for mutual growth and development.

Rep. Paul Asuquo Ekpo (PDP, Akwa Ibom) commended South Korea’s initiatives through the Nigeria-South Korea Chamber of Commerce and advocated for increased business engagements. Meanwhile, Rep. Fom Dalyop Chollom (LP, Plateau) stressed the need for expanded technology transfer, noting Nigeria’s significant market potential as Africa’s largest economy. He also highlighted the importance of youth empowerment initiatives that could benefit both nations.

Rep. Midala Usman Balami (PDP, Borno) drew attention to the necessity of health interventions, advancements in agriculture, and skill development for economically disadvantaged youth in Nigeria. He also encouraged Ambassador Kim to identify specific areas where South Korean operations could benefit from legislative support and to propose new ideas for bilateral collaboration.

This meeting exemplifies the ongoing efforts of the 10th House of Representatives, under the leadership of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen PhD, to positively impact Nigerians' lives through meaningful international partnerships and bilateral cooperation. The discussions held, reflect a shared vision for advancing collaboration between Nigeria and South Korea, aiming to address mutual challenges and harness opportunities for sustainable development.