The 5th Session of the Nigeria-Namibia Joint Permanent Commission for Cooperation (JPCC), which has just concluded in Windhoek, Namibia, was conducted by Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu. This session is the first in 15 years, as the most recent meeting was conducted in Lagos in 2010. The session served to fortify the robust bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Namibia, which is founded on a shared cultural heritage, socio-economic connections, and historical solidarity.
Senior officials from both countries participated in lengthy discussions, which resulted in the identification of critical areas for collaboration. These areas include oil and gas, agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries, aquaculture, mining, geological studies, youth development, education, tourism, and technical cooperation.
The resolution to operationalize a variety of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) for the mutual advantage of both nations was a significant result of the session. The Nigerian delegation also expressed apprehension regarding the plight of Nigerian nationals who are incarcerated in Namibian prisons, urging for official judicial intervention to resolve their cases. Bianca Ojukwu conveyed her gratitude for the Namibian government's gracious hospitality and warm reception.
She expressed her profound appreciation to the president-elect of Namibia for her cordial engagement and unwavering support during the session. Ojukwu underscored Nigeria's dedication to strengthening diplomatic relations with Namibia by describing his role as co-chair of the Joint Permanent Commission as an honor. She reiterated the significance of enduring collaboration in critical sectors to promote mutual prosperity and economic growth.
Source: The Facebook page of the Honourable Minister of Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu.