In a significant sign of growing economic and cultural engagement, the trade volume between Nigeria and the Philippines has soared from $47 million in 2023 to $221 million in 2024, according to the Philippines’ Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Mersole Mellojor. The announcement was made during the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration held at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador Mellojor attributed much of the surge to energy exports, notably liquefied natural gas (LNG), which now accounts for over 90% of the Philippines’ imports from Nigeria. He described this trade growth as “a good development,” citing Nigeria’s vital role in helping the Philippines meet its rising energy demand.
Beyond Energy: A Broader Investment Outlook
Ambassador Mellojor also emphasized a desire to move beyond the current trade framework by encouraging Philippine companies to partner with Nigerian firms, especially in areas like:
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Public transportation systems powered by sustainable energy,
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Manufacturing of consumer products, and
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Other high-impact sectors aligned with green growth and inclusive development.
He noted, “We are focused on enabling Philippine businesses to leverage Nigeria’s vast market and investment potential as part of their overseas expansion.”
People-to-People Ties: The Heart of the Relationship
While the economic gains are impressive, Mellojor underlined that the most enduring feature of Philippines–Nigeria relations is people-to-people connectivity. He revealed that an estimated 4,000 Filipinos currently reside in Nigeria, working in manufacturing, oil and gas, education, healthcare, hospitality, and other sectors. Many, he noted, are married to Nigerians and have integrated into local communities.
“I want to thank Nigeria for its welcoming and friendly attitude,” he said. “Perhaps not coincidentally, I read recently that Nigeria is ranked the 7th friendliest country in the world to foreigners.”
On the other side of the exchange, the Philippines is home to approximately 10,000 Nigerians, most of whom are enrolled in various higher education institutions. Nigerian students, Mellojor added, are making waves in sports and entertainment, much like Filipino dramas have grown increasingly popular among Nigerian audiences.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry Hails Filipino Spirit
Representing the Nigerian government, Mrs. Aduke Ogunmilua, a Senior Counselor at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, offered heartfelt remarks, celebrating the resilience of the Filipino people and the strength of bilateral ties.
“Today is a tribute to a nation that has carved its identity through courage, unity, and resilience,” Ogunmilua said, marking June 12, 1898, as not just a date of independence, but the emergence of a dynamic society that stands tall in Southeast Asia.
She emphasized that Nigeria and the Philippines share a vision of a just, peaceful, and prosperous world, driven by democracy, solidarity, and inclusive development. Their partnership, she said, continues to deepen through trade, education, cultural exchange, and shared commitments to global peace and sustainability.
A Night of Culture and Celebration
The evening’s highlights included a vibrant Filipino cultural dance performance, symbolizing the depth of heritage celebrated across both nations. Guests also participated in a friendship raffle draw, taking home gifts that underscored the spirit of goodwill.
The staggering 370% growth in bilateral trade between Nigeria and the Philippines signals more than just economic movement, it reflects a maturing diplomatic relationship founded on mutual respect, opportunity, and shared values. As energy, education, and cultural exchanges deepen, both countries appear poised to transform their historical friendship into a strategic partnership with global relevance.
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