By Paul Effiong, Abuja
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas has called for the use of parliamentary diplomacy to fast-track frameworks for medical exchanges, academic recognition, joint research, as well as targeted investments between Nigeria and Cuba.
Speaker Abbas, who was represented by the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu, made the call yesterday while receiving a delegation from Cuba led by Fernando Llort, a member of the National Assembly of the People’s Power of Cuba and President of the Cuban Institute of Friendship with the Peoples.
At the meeting, the speaker praised the longstanding diplomatic ties between Nigeria and Cuba, even as he urged both countries to expand cooperation in health, trade, biotechnology and cultural exchanges.
He expressed optimism that such cooperation could lead to tangible outcomes like signing of a Memoranda of Understanding, MoU, ratified agreements and funded programmes.
While highlighting Nigeria’s priorities, Speaker Abbas also stressed that the relationship between the two countries should be mutually beneficial.
According to him, Cuba will provide technical expertise in medicine, biotechnology and education, while Nigeria leverages its large market, natural resources and creative industries to open new opportunities for trade and investment.
Speaker Abbas also cited Cuba’s successful vaccine development and international health brigades as models for joint research and health system strengthening in Nigeria.
He underscored the importance of youth exchange programmes, scholarships and skills development, noting that Nigeria’s demographic dividend can only be maximised by equipping its young population with 21st-century skills.
While emphasising the importance of the trade treaty, the speaker said the agreements must guarantee technology transfer, fair intellectual property protection and the creation of local value chains that produce jobs and strengthen institutions.
In their remarks, the Cuban Ambassador, Miriam Morales Palmer and Llort reaffirmed Cuba’s commitment to the partnership, pledging continued collaboration on areas of mutual interest.
