Nigeria, Turkey to deepen ties as business leaders call for long-term cooperation

Nigerian and Turkish business leaders say the relationship between both countries is entering a period where investment, skills, and long-term cooperation matter more than simple buying and selling.

They argue that Nigeria’s large consumer base, design sector, and manufacturing potential place it in a strong position to benefit from deeper engagement with Turkish companies.

Their comments reflect wider efforts by Ankara to expand its presence across Africa. Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat recently noted that trade between Türkiye and Africa is aiming to reach $40 billion in 2025, with plans to strengthen partnerships on what he called a “fair, equal, and win-win” basis.

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This broad push formed the backdrop for discussions among Nigerian and Turkish representatives who said the next phase of cooperation should prioritise shared production, access to equipment, training, and policies that allow businesses to build operations across both markets. They also pointed to improvements in the Turkish visa process, which they say has helped Nigerian entrepreneurs explore opportunities and understand how the Turkish market works.

It was against this wider relationship that the 2nd Nigeria DecorExpo in Lagos gathered industry players to examine what deeper cooperation should look like.

Muhammet Ali Aras, African manager of ATLM Expo and president of the Turkey-Africa Export Union, said foreign companies must rethink how they operate in Nigeria. “Around the world, the companies are coming here to do business with Nigerian people, but many do not give the information Nigerians need,” he said. “They take the money and go back. No. They should come, they should give information, and they should invest in Nigeria.”

He added that the organisers intend to remain committed. “We are not here for one year or two years,” Aras said. “Every year we grow because people see different products and new opportunities. We aim to make West Africa the centre of decoration, and Nigeria will be at the heart of it.”

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Gabriel Idahosa, Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, said the Expo has helped expose Nigerians to equipment and ideas that can strengthen local production. “They have brought more than an exhibition of furniture,” he said.

“They have brought opportunities for Nigerians who want to improve their skills in design and creativity. It shows that this equipment can also be produced in Nigeria.”

Martins Arebun, president of the MEEI Programme, said Nigeria’s consumer market gives it an advantage as a gateway for Turkish manufacturers. But he stressed that joint ventures and production hubs are essential. “Real industrial collaboration is built not only through transactions but through shared production and shared prosperity,” he said.

Speakers urged both governments to strengthen manufacturing, décor, and creative industry policies so that the relationship creates lasting economic value.