Maryam Aminu
Italy’s Acting Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Iacopo Foti, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to stronger bilateral ties with Nigeria during a reception hosted in Abuja to commemorate the 79th anniversary of Italy’s Republic Day.
The event, held on Sunday evening, brought together senior Nigerian officials, diplomats, business executives, and cultural figures to celebrate the establishment of the Italian Republic and reflect on the longstanding Italy–Nigeria partnership.
Speaking at the occasion, Ambassador Foti emphasized the strategic and cultural bonds shared by both countries, noting that diplomatic relations between Italy and Nigeria have remained active and productive since their formal establishment in 1960.
“Our two countries are linked not only by trade and diplomacy but also by shared values, cultural affinities, and people-to-people connections,” he said.
The envoy lauded the Nigerian people’s resilience and entrepreneurial energy, describing Nigeria as a country of immense diversity and potential.
He also paid tribute to the Italian community in Nigeria, many of whom have lived and worked in the country for decades, contributing to its development in areas such as construction, food production, design, technology, and fashion.
“To my fellow Italians in Nigeria — you have represented our nation with distinction,” Foti said. “You have helped build, manufacture, innovate and integrate, and we are proud of your contributions.”
Highlighting cultural diplomacy as a major pillar of the relationship, the ambassador pointed out that both countries boast globally influential creative industries, from Nollywood and Nigerian music to Italy’s fashion, film, and art sectors.
He also identified academic exchanges and cultural collaborations as growth areas in Italy–Nigeria relations, noting that Nigeria now hosts the third-largest Nigerian diaspora community in Europe after the United States and the United Kingdom.
Ambassador Foti called for stronger multilateral cooperation on global issues, including climate change, migration, and human security areas where both countries have played active roles, particularly through international forums such as the United Nations and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change.
Referencing Nigerian writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Foti spoke about the importance of breaking stereotypes in global narratives: “As she said, the danger of the single story is that it is incomplete. Italy and Nigeria are far more complex, far more connected, and far more promising than one story could ever capture.”
He concluded by thanking Nigerian authorities for their continued support and expressed optimism about future partnerships.
“Let this day remind us that diplomacy is not just protocol it’s people, values, and vision. Long live the friendship between Italy and Nigeria.”
Africa Security Investigation News 