By Maryam Aminu
Nigeria’s Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has described the country as one of Africa’s most attractive investment destinations, as Nigeria and Italy take bold steps toward deepening economic and trade relations.
Speaking at the first Nigeria-Italy Investment Summit 2025 (NIIS 2025), themed “Building Bridges: Unlocking Opportunities,” Abbas, represented by Hon. Afuope Afolabi, emphasized Nigeria’s large population, dynamic market, and resource-rich economy as key assets for global investors.
“Italian enterprises have found fertile ground in Nigeria, and we in turn have benefited from these investments,” Abbas said, calling for a reimagined approach to bilateral cooperation through targeted investments in agriculture, energy, oil and gas, agro-processing, and solid minerals.
The summit organized by Giant Gee Nigeria Limited in partnership with the Italian Embassy served as a high-level platform for fostering investment-driven dialogue and strategic partnerships.
Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, represented by Hon. Uchenna Harris Okonkwo, echoed the sentiment, stating, “These are two nations with immense potential. This summit is not just about investment; it’s about aligning values and mutual economic ambition.”
Italian Deputy Ambassador Mr. Lacopo Foti described the gathering as a celebration of shared values, trust, and commitment to sustainable development. “Italy’s cultural heritage and technological expertise make it a natural partner for Nigeria,” he noted.
With 2024 trade volumes between the two countries reaching approximately €2.5 billion, stakeholders expressed optimism that NIIS 2025 would spark greater collaboration and unlock long-term opportunities to transform both economies and improve livelihoods.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Giant Gee Nigeria Ltd, Amb. Engr. Augustine Chigbolu, said the summit aims to revitalize the bilateral business relationship between Nigeria and Italy.
“By fostering these strategic partnerships, the summit aims to not only solidify existing trade relations but also to discover new avenues for joint innovation and development.” He added
