The Nigerian and Venezuelan Government have restated their commitment to deepening diplomatic and economic relations in advancing bilateral cooperation and preparations for the Second Session of the Nigeria–Venezuela Joint Commission.
In a statement issued by the spokesperson of the Nigerian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the agreement was reached at a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the Venezuelan Ambassador to Nigeria, Alberto Castellar Padilla.
Initially scheduled for June 2026, the Nigeria–Venezuela Joint Commission will now be rescheduled to a later date.
Both countries cited emerging administrative developments in their respective nations as factors necessitating the adjustment.
However, they emphasized that the decision was not a postponement indefinitely, but rather a strategic move to allow for more comprehensive preparation and effective participation.
The two sides highlighted the importance of the Joint Commission as a key platform for strengthening collaboration across critical sectors, including agriculture, oil and gas, energy, mining, manufacturing, and information and communication technology.
Ambassador Ahmed reaffirmed Nigeria’s strong diplomatic ties with Venezuela, expressing solidarity with the country’s ongoing economic and institutional reforms.
He also welcomed recent positive developments in Venezuela’s economy, particularly the easing of sanctions on key financial institutions, noting that such progress could enhance bilateral cooperation.
To ensure a productive outcome when the Commission reconvenes, both countries agreed to establish a joint technical committee.
The committee will be tasked with reviewing existing agreements, updating outdated frameworks, and coordinating necessary documentation ahead of the meeting.
A new date for the session will be announced after consultations are completed.
Nigeria and Venezuela also reiterated their shared commitment to strengthening their longstanding partnership, promoting South-South cooperation, and jointly addressing emerging global challenges through sustained diplomatic engagement.
The Nigeria and Venezuela Diplomatic relations is dated back to 1965, and have continued to evolve through political dialogue, economic engagement, and cultural exchange over the years.
