The Qatari government has turned down a request from Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to visit the country for a business and investment meeting, citing the absence of a legally binding agreement between the two nations for investment promotion.
In a letter addressed to Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Qatari authorities expressed regret that they would be unable to accommodate President Tinubu’s proposed visit and the scheduled forum on March 2 and 3. The letter explained that Qatar’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry had prior commitments on those dates and emphasized the lack of a signed agreement between Qatar and Nigeria for investment promotion and protection.
Furthermore, Qatar mentioned that its Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Qassim al-Thani, would be engaged in official missions abroad during the period of President Tinubu’s intended visit, making him unavailable for a meeting. Additionally, Qatar highlighted its hosting of a web summit during the same timeframe, noting that its authorities would be preoccupied with organizing and participating in the event.
The rejection underscores Qatar’s position on bilateral agreements and commitments, signaling its current inability to engage in the proposed business and investment discussions with Nigeria.
