By Zainab Bakare
Nigeria and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have agreed to deepen cooperation in humanitarian affairs, youth empowerment, counter-extremism, cultural exchange and socio-economic development.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, met the OIC Assistant Secretary-General, Ambassador Dr. Tarig Bakheet, at the ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Wednesday, August 12, 2026.
According to a statement by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, the meeting review Nigeria’s longstanding relationship with the OIC and explored ways to strengthen cooperation.
Nigeria Proposes Humanitarian Working Group
Ahmed proposed the establishment of a Nigeria-OIC Working Group on Humanitarian Affairs.
He says the group would promote regional coordination in tackling insecurity and humanitarian challenges in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.
It would also support interfaith dialogue and assistance to displaced populations.
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives and programmes of the OIC.
He also called for stronger cooperation in cultural activities, including cultural festivals that would expose young people across OIC member states to diverse heritage.
According to him, such initiatives could promote peace, unity and mutual understanding.
Ahmed further called for expanded OIC-supported programmes in vocational training, women’s empowerment and healthcare development.
OIC Commends Nigeria
Bakheet commended Nigeria’s active role within the OIC and expressed the organisation’s readiness to deepen cooperation with the country.
He invited Nigeria to consider hosting the next OIC Social Development Conference and annual cultural festivals.
He also encouraged stronger Nigerian representation in managerial positions within the organisation.
Both sides agreed on the need for sustained high-level engagement and practical cooperation for the benefit of Nigeria, OIC member states and the wider Islamic world.
Nigeria to Attend OIC Meeting
Ahmed also confirmed that Nigeria will participate in the OIC Council of Foreign Ministers Meeting in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on August 27, 2026.
The meeting is expected to include the election of a new Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.
The discussions were held in a cordial atmosphere, highlighting the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and the OIC.
