Bangladesh Seeks Nigerian Gas Supply as Both Countries Push New Cooperation Framework

By Omoyeni Ojeifo

The High Commissioner of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh to Nigeria, Miah Md. Mainul Kabir, has said his country is exploring new energy partnerships with Nigeria as it seeks to expand and balance its sources of petroleum and gas imports.

He spoke during a courtesy visit to the Permanent Secretary of the Federal wMinistry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, in Abuja, on Wednesday.

“Bangladesh seeks to diversify its energy import sources and views Nigeria as a key strategic partner in advancing petroleum and gas cooperation,” the High Commissioner said.

Discussions at the meeting centred on strengthening bilateral relations between both countries, with emphasis on energy cooperation, trade, and diplomatic engagement.

The Bangladeshi envoy also highlighted ongoing efforts to conclude a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the importation of petroleum and gas products from Nigeria, as part of plans to broaden Bangladesh’s energy import basket.

He further noted ongoing discussions on key bilateral agreements, including the proposed Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation, aimed at boosting trade and investment flows.

The envoy welcomed Bangladesh’s recent global recognition, citing the election of its Foreign Minister, Khalilur Rahman, as President of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), and called for continued cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

In response, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Dunoma Umar Ahmed, congratulated Bangladesh on the development, describing it as a significant milestone in global diplomacy.

“Nigeria remains committed to strengthening South-South cooperation and will work closely with Bangladesh to fast track energy collaboration and bilateral agreements,” the Permanent Secretary said.

He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s UNGA presidency and advancing collaboration on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Ahmed also assured that Nigeria is working with relevant agencies, including the Federal Ministry of Petroleum to expedite the proposed energy agreement.

The engagement closed with renewed diplomatic momentum, as both countries expressed readiness to expand cooperation in energy, trade, and wider bilateral relations.