Nigeria Hails Outgoing Mexican Envoy, Pledges to Continued Commitment to Strategic Ties
Oru Leonard
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, has commended the outgoing Ambassador of the United Mexican States to Nigeria, H.E. Alfredo Miranda Ortiz, for his outstanding contributions to the strengthening of bilateral relations between Nigeria and Mexico during his tour of duty.
The commendation was conveyed on behalf of the Honourable Minister by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, PhD, during a farewell audience granted to the Ambassador on Tuesday 24th March 2026 at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
During the meeting, the outgoing Ambassador expressed profound appreciation to the Government of Nigeria for the cooperation and support extended to him throughout his nearly four-year tenure. He noted that Nigeria–Mexico relations had witnessed significant advancement, particularly through enhanced diplomatic engagements and the institutionalization of structured bilateral dialogue mechanisms.
Ambassador Ortiz highlighted notable milestones achieved during his tenure, including the establishment of the Nigeria–Mexico Chamber of Commerce and the appointment of an Honorary Consul in Lagos. He also underscored the strengthening of economic cooperation, particularly in agricultural trade, referencing the collaboration under the SENASICA–NAQS framework which has facilitated increased export of hibiscus from Nigeria to Mexico.
In his remarks, the Permanent Secretary conveyed the apologies of the Honourable Minister for his inability to personally receive the Ambassador due to prior official commitments. He nevertheless reaffirmed the Minister’s high regard for the Ambassador and commended his dedication and impactful service, which have significantly elevated bilateral relations across various sectors.
Amb. Ahmed noted with satisfaction the steady growth in economic relations between both countries, including the diversification of trade commodities and increased investment in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. He further emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to providing an enabling environment for foreign direct investment and encouraged Mexican businesses to take advantage of existing opportunities, particularly in agriculture and agro-processing.
The Permanent Secretary also highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation into emerging sectors such as manufacturing, mining, infrastructure, pharmaceuticals, and the digital and creative economy. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s readiness to deepen collaboration in these areas for mutual benefit.
He further noted that the year 2026 marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and
Mexico, describing it as a significant milestone that underscores the resilience and growth of bilateral ties since 1976.
While appreciating the cordial political and diplomatic relations between both countries, the Permanent Secretary stressed the need to sustain the momentum through continued high-level engagements and effective implementation of bilateral agreements.
In his response, Ambassador Ortiz expressed gratitude for the kind remarks and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting Nigeria–Mexico relations even after he retires from diplomatic service. He assured that he would continue to support the advancement of bilateral ties in any capacity possible.
The meeting ended on a cordial note, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further strengthening the longstanding relations between Nigeria and Mexico.
(MFA Press, Wednesday 25 March 2026)
