Relations between the UAE and Nigeria have been characterized by mutual respect and cooperation since its beginning in 1982. The success of this relationship is epitomised by the signing of vital agreements, high-level working visits, and vibrant business and cultural links between both countries.
The first meeting of the Joint Commission of both held in the 26th of July 2022 in Abu Dhabi, chaired by His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and His Excellency Ambassador Zubairu Dada, Former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Federal Republic of Nigeria. Before this, in January 2016, during Former President Muhammadu Buhari's visit to the UAE, six agreements were signed in areas ranging from economic trade cooperation to judicial cooperation.
A series of working visits further buttress this relationship.
- On May 29, 2023, His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan - Minister of State, participated in the inauguration ceremony of President Bola Tinubu, at the head of a delegation from the UAE.
- On July 26, 2022, His Excellency Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State, met with His Excellency Ambassador Zubairu Dada, former Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, on the sidelines of the first session of the work of the joint committee between the two countries in the capital, Abu Dhabi. A memorandum of understanding was signed for cooperation in the field of culture and youth, and a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in the field of sports.
- Most recently, Former President Muhammadu Buhari visited the UAE in May 2022. On this working trip, he met with newly elected President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates.
- In December 2021, the Former Vice-President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo, visited the UAE as keynote speaker at the World Liquified Petroleum Gas Association forum.
- Former President Muhammadu Buhari, in UAE, December 2021, for Nigeria day at EXPO 2020, met with HH President Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan.
- Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo at the Forum for Promoting Peace in Muslim Societies in Abu Dhabi in December 2019, where he met with HH President Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan and HH Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai.
- Former President Muhammadu Buhari, at the Annual Investment Meeting (AIM), in April 2019, met with HH President Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan during this trip.
