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Sweden is set to bolster its diplomatic and economic relations with Nigeria by establishing a trade office in Lagos, set to be inaugurated by Crown Princess Victoria Désirée of Sweden on Tuesday.
Désirée made this announcement during a reception held in her honour in Abuja on Monday, highlighting the move as a key step in enhancing the bilateral cooperation between the two nations.
She said, “As we heard, next year marks 56 years of diplomatic relations between our two countries. Over the decades, our bond has grown stronger, particularly in trade and economic cooperation.
“Today, our collaboration spans many sectors—from renewable energy and sustainable transport to digital solutions.
“A testament to this deepening partnership is Sweden’s new trade office in Lagos, which I have the great privilege of inaugurating tomorrow.”
The Crown Princess also emphasized the importance of cultural exchange between Sweden and Nigeria, noting the impact of Nigerian art and literature on Swedish society. One significant symbol of this connection is a bronze wind sculpture by renowned Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare, installed in 2022 at the Princess Estelle Sculpture Park in Stockholm.
She further remarked, “Our strong bond is also evident in the rich cultural exchange between Nigeria and Sweden. This is reflected in art, music, fashion, film, and literature. Many Swedes have gained a deeper understanding of Nigerian culture through the words of the Nobel Laureate in Literature, Wole Soyinka.
“In 2022, the Princess Estelle Sculpture Park in Stockholm—named after my daughter—acquired a beautiful, site-specific wind sculpture in bronze by the world-famous Nigerian artist Yinka Shonibare. Yes, it’s nice. We’re very proud of it. In the winter, its purple batik prints from Nigeria create a very beautiful contrast with the white snow in Stockholm.
“The sculpture also captures the lightness of air despite being crafted from solid, heavy bronze, which is quite amazing. Seeing this artwork in the heart of Stockholm makes me both happy and proud. It’s a beautiful, permanent link between our two countries.”
Sweden’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annika Hahn-Englund, remarked that the visit by Crown Princess Victoria Désirée underscores the longstanding and friendly relations between Sweden and Nigeria.
“Diplomatic relations between Sweden and the Federal Republic of Nigeria were established in 1961, just after Nigeria’s independence. Next year, we will be celebrating 65 years of diplomatic ties,” Hahn-Englund said.
The ambassador highlighted the evolution of the bilateral relationship, noting that over the years, both nations have collaborated in political, commercial, and cultural sectors. She further pointed out the significant potential for enhanced collaboration, particularly in digitalization, innovation, the green transition, and the creative industries.
“We already have about 40 Swedish companies present in Nigeria today, including multinationals like Ericsson, Atlas Copco, SKF, Arla, Scania, and Volvo.
“Smaller firms in edtech, fintech, agritech, and healthtech are also active. And now, with Business Sweden opening a trade office in Lagos, we expect even more trade and investment,” she stated.
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