Ambassador-designate Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas was officially welcomed, and his credentials were received by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Malacañang Palace on September 1.
Both pushed for the further strengthening of Philippine-Nigerian relations, as the two countries prepare to mark 65 years of diplomatic ties in 2027.
The President also noted that ‘the Philippines and Nigeria have significant potential to expand cooperation especially in energy security, trade and investment, and pursue initiatives that would mutually benefit our peoples and our countries.’
He was joined by Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa Lazaro, Assistant Secretary Germinia Aguilar-Usudan, and Deputy Chief of Presidential Protocol Dennis Briones.
The Philippines and the Federal Republic of Nigeria established diplomatic relations on August 1, 1962.
The upcoming anniversary provides an opportunity for both countries to expand cooperation and exchanges across various areas of mutual interest.