The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with Israel, focusing on agriculture, security, defence, education, healthcare, and technology to fast-track the country’s socio-economic development.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Sen. George Akume CON (R) in a friendly handshake with Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman during the courtesy visit to the SGF on Tuesday, 2nd June, 2026 in Abuja.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, made this known on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, when he received the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Michael Freeman, in Abuja.

Senator Akume highlighted Nigeria’s vast arable land, youthful population, and rich natural resources, stating that strategic partnerships and investments could position the country as a major global player in food production, technology, education, and healthcare.

Drawing from his two previous visits to Israel, the SGF praised the country’s impressive transformation despite harsh environmental conditions. He lauded Israel’s breakthroughs in agriculture, healthcare, education, and technological innovation, describing it as a model of resilience and strategic development.

Ambassador Michael Freeman described Nigeria as a blessed nation with immense potential and noted several similarities with Israel. He cited Israel’s success in converting desert lands into productive agricultural zones through advanced irrigation and innovative farming techniques, and expressed Israel’s readiness to partner with Nigeria to boost food production and turn the country into a major agricultural exporter.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), Sen. George Akume CON (R) listening to the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman, during the courtesy visit to the SGF on Tuesday, 2nd June, 2026 in Abuja

“Strong political will and sustained commitment to implementation are key,” the Ambassador emphasized.

On security, Ambassador Freeman acknowledged that both nations face similar challenges, particularly terrorism, and expressed willingness to collaborate in areas such as troop training, cybersecurity, tracking of illicit financial flows, border security, and tactical operations.

Also speaking at the meeting, the Special Adviser to the President on Homeland Security, Major General Adeyinka Famadewa (Rtd.), noted that Nigeria and Israel confront comparable security threats. He stressed that Israel’s advanced technological capabilities and security systems could greatly benefit Nigeria through enhanced intelligence sharing, capacity building, and specialized training.

The meeting was witnessed by the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Mr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation Sen. George Akume CON (centre) flanked by Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria Michael Freeman (3rd left) Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni (2nd left) Special Adviser to Mr. President on Homeland Security, Maj. Gen. Adeyinka Famadewa (Rtd) (3rd right) and aides to the SGF and the Ambassador in a group photograph during the courtesy visit to the SGF on Tuesday, 2nd June, 2026 in Abuja

The development signals a renewed push by the Nigerian government to leverage international partnerships for national development in critical sectors.