Dear Fellow
Nigerians and other visitors to our official website site,
I assumed duty as Nigeria’s High Commissioner in this
welcoming, peaceful and fascinating country, Canada, on the
19th June 2008.
In this privileged position, I seek to vigorously pursue
closer ties between our country Nigeria and our host country
Canada, with whom we share historical, cultural, and
diplomatic ties. Nigeria and Canada are members of the
commonwealth, share the same colonial experience and share
common aspirations in sustaining democracy, through the rule
of law and equity in our diversities. As members of the
United Nations, Canada and Nigeria share a similar outlook
on many global issues.
Our country Nigeria is the heart of Africa, where one out of
four Africans is Nigerian. Not only is Nigeria the most
populous African country. It’s also a leading country in
Africa, and has contributed immensely in peace-keeping
operations in Africa. Nigeria is witnessing change at rapid
speed. Its democratic credentials and its huge economic
potential have been enhanced by strategic reforms that have
made Nigeria the destination for the serious investor,
business traveller and tourists.
The vision of Nigeria, is to rapidly take advantage of its
vast human and natural resources (especially in Oil, Gas and
Agriculture) to become one of the Worlds best 20 operating
economies by the year 2020. My vision as High Commissioner
is to help foster a dynamic bilateral relationship between
Canada and Nigeria based on mutual benefits and mutual
respect and co-operation.
My duty at the High Commission is to enhance Nigeria’s
foreign policy of “citizen diplomacy”. As High Commissioner,
I have no higher priority than the safety and welfare of
Nigerians living in or visiting Canada. The Nigeria High
Commission will offer efficient and selfless service in a
timely manner to all. This website will continue to provide
all relevant information to our services, to residents and
visitors alike.
We also encourage a rigorous feedback from Canadians and
other foreigners who have worked in Nigeria or visited
Nigeria, even if only in their minds, to join our “friends
of Nigeria” project to strengthen the bond of friendship
between our two countries. Details are also in the website.
Friends, compatriots, whether you are a permanent resident
or just visiting Canada for vacation or business purposes,
my desire and wish is that you enjoy your time in this
wonderful country. Our Consular Section’s web pages explain
in greater detail how the High Commission can assist you
during your stay in Canada.Prof. Iyorwuese Hagher,
PhD, OON
High Commissioner