Akume Reaffirms Nigeria's Commitment to Stronger Serbia Relations -

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s longstanding diplomatic and economic relations with the Republic of Serbia.

Akume gave the assurance on Tuesday while receiving the Serbian Ambassador to Nigeria, Jugoslav Vukadinović, during a courtesy visit at his office in Abuja.

Akume described the relationship between both countries as one founded on mutual respect, shared interests and decades of diplomatic cooperation, stressing that the Federal Government remained committed to expanding bilateral engagement.

Speaking during the meeting, Vukadinović described Nigeria and Serbia’s relationship as historic and enduring, noting that Serbia, as the successor state of the former Yugoslavia, had maintained cordial ties with Nigeria since the country’s independence in 1960.

He recalled that the former Yugoslavia was among Nigeria’s earliest international partners and that both countries were active members of the Non-Aligned Movement, with Yugoslavia serving as a co-founder while Nigeria played a prominent role.

Ambassador of the Republic of Serbia, His Excellency Jugoslav Vukadinovic speaking with Newsmen

“Serbia has always supported Nigeria and considers Nigeria its number one partner in Africa. Our friendship dates back to Nigeria’s independence in 1960, and we are determined to build on this strong foundation to take our relations to a much higher level,” the ambassador said.

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Vukadinović highlighted the contributions of Serbian companies to Nigeria’s infrastructure development over the years, citing projects such as the Lagos International Trade Fair Complex, the Kano State Ministerial Complex, the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, hospitals, electrification projects in more than 60 locations, irrigation schemes, dam projects and sports infrastructure in Akwa Ibom State.

He also disclosed that Serbia was ready to facilitate the return of its companies to Nigeria to explore fresh investment opportunities and deepen economic cooperation between both countries.

According to him, Serbia is also willing to serve as a strategic gateway for Nigerian businesses seeking access to markets in Southeastern Europe.

“We are ready to bring our companies back to Nigeria. Serbia is eager to develop stronger economic relations with Nigeria and to serve as a bridge for Nigeria into Southeastern Europe,” he added.

The visit is expected to bolster ongoing efforts by both countries to expand trade, investment and broader bilateral cooperation.