The Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Abuja yesterday marked the 94th National Day of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a ceremony that highlighted the growing trade relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, which has now reached $600 million.
Governor of Kano State, Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by Deputy Governor Aminu Abdussalam, reiterated the state government’s commitment to strengthening partnerships with Saudi Arabia, particularly in the areas of trade, health, and education.
“Kano will continue to collaborate with Saudi Arabia to improve our trade relations, health sector, and educational opportunities for our people,” Abdussalam said, expressing gratitude for the Kingdom’s humanitarian efforts, particularly in supporting Nigerian citizens, including the successful sponsorship of the Kano conjoined twins.
The event, held at the residence of the Saudi Ambassador, Faisal bin Ebraheem Alghamdi, brought together government officials, heads of diplomatic missions, and business leaders, reinforcing the long-standing relationship between Saudi Arabia and Nigeria, which has flourished for over 63 years.
Alghamdi praised the growing economic ties between both nations, stating, “Our trade volume with Nigeria stands at $600 million, a reflection of the deep and growing partnership between our countries.”
He emphasised that numerous bilateral agreements have fostered greater cooperation in education, trade, and diplomacy. The ambassador also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian contributions to Nigeria, referencing the recent separation of the Kano conjoined twins, sponsored by the Kingdom.
“This was the 56th separation surgery performed by Saudi doctors, and we are proud to contribute to such vital work.”
In addition, Alghamdi reflected on the Kingdom’s efforts in facilitating the pilgrimage of thousands of Nigerian pilgrims and offering 260 scholarships to Nigerian students.
He also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, a national plan to drive sustainable development and economic growth, which includes global partnerships like that with Nigeria.