The High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Nigeria, Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, has expressed concern over the relatively low volume of trade between the two countries, describing it as far below its actual potential despite the strong diplomatic ties that have existed for decades.
Kabir made the remarks in Abuja while addressing guests at the celebration of the 55th anniversary of Bangladesh’s Independence and National Day. He stressed that expanding economic cooperation between both countries would remain a key focus of his diplomatic mission.
According to him, although trade between Nigeria and Bangladesh has recorded gradual growth over the years, the level of commercial exchange does not reflect the enormous opportunities available to both nations.
“Bilateral trade between our two countries has grown steadily yet remains well below its true potential,” he said. “Bangladesh offers competitively priced, high-quality products in textiles and garments, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, jute goods, processed foods and ICT services, while Nigeria, with its vast market, energy resources and agricultural depth, presents significant opportunities for stronger trade relations.”
The envoy highlighted agriculture as one of the most promising areas for collaboration, pointing particularly to contract farming as a new pathway for expanding bilateral economic engagement.
He explained that Bangladesh’s experience in high-yield and climate-adaptive agricultural production could be combined with Nigeria’s vast arable land and growing agro-processing industry to boost productivity and food security in both countries.
To unlock these opportunities, Kabir said Bangladesh is now intensifying its diplomatic and economic engagement with African nations, with Nigeria occupying a strategic position in that effort.
“Bangladesh is placing renewed focus on strengthening our partnerships in Africa, particularly with Nigeria — a country of immense dynamism, influence and opportunity,” he said.
The High Commissioner noted that the two countries share long-standing cordial relations rooted in similar historical experiences, youthful populations and shared democratic aspirations.
He added that both nations have consistently worked together within major international organisations such as the United Nations, the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, the D-8 Organization for Economic Cooperation and the Commonwealth of Nations.
According to him, the partnership between the two countries reflects a broader commitment to South–South cooperation and collective efforts by developing nations to promote shared prosperity and global development.
Beyond trade, Kabir identified several other sectors where Nigeria and Bangladesh could deepen collaboration, including education, skills development, digital innovation, technical training and defence cooperation, particularly in professional military training and peacekeeping operations.
He also emphasised the importance of people-to-people engagement, noting that stronger cultural exchanges, academic partnerships and youth cooperation would further strengthen the bond between both nations.
The envoy used the occasion to commend Bangladeshi nationals living and working in Nigeria, describing them as responsible representatives of their country abroad.
“You are exemplary ambassadors of our nation,” he said. “Your hard work and integrity contribute significantly to the economies of Bangladesh and Nigeria and strengthen the bond between our peoples.”
Kabir also reflected on Bangladesh’s development journey over the past five and a half decades, noting that the country has emerged as a significant economic force among developing nations.
According to him, Bangladesh’s nominal gross domestic product is approaching half a trillion dollars, placing the country among the 35 largest economies in the world and making it a leading example of socio-economic progress in the Global South.
In his remarks, Director of Regions at Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bukar Hamman, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Bangladesh.
Hamman said both countries share a strong belief in multilateral cooperation, peacebuilding and inclusive development.
“Both our nations have contributed significantly to United Nations peace operations, demonstrating mutual dedication to global peace and security,” he said.
He noted that bilateral engagement between Nigeria and Bangladesh has continued to expand in recent years, particularly in trade, agriculture, education and defence cooperation.
Hamman also welcomed the growing presence of Bangladeshi businesses in Nigeria and encouraged deeper collaboration between private sector actors from both countries.
“There is vast potential for collaboration in textiles, pharmaceuticals, ICT and renewable energy sectors where Bangladesh has developed notable expertise,” he said.
“As we look to the future, Nigeria remains committed to strengthening our ties with Bangladesh. Enhanced cooperation between our two countries will not only benefit our peoples but also contribute to stronger South–South cooperation and global development efforts.”
He added that the celebration of Bangladesh’s independence anniversary was not only an opportunity to reflect on the country’s historical journey but also a moment to recognise its aspirations for continued peace, innovation and progress.
Hamman stressed that Nigeria values Bangladesh as a trusted partner and friend, expressing confidence that the relationship between the two nations would continue to grow stronger in the years ahead.
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