A delegation of Turkish business representatives has described the economic boom in Nigeria as the impetus that spurred them to seek collaborations with the Nigerian business community. This was declared at an executive business parley held in Lagos to promote trade between Nigeria and Turkey, especially in steel.

At the event, Turkey’s Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Economy, Mr. Yavuz Ozutku, spoke on behalf of the Turkish government. He said the delegation, comprised mainly of 21 steel manufacturers and exporters, is in Nigeria as a result of the existing cordial relationship between both nations.

“Just two weeks ago there was a Turkish exhibition in Lagos. And now we are here with the Turkish Steel Exporters’ Association – an association of Turkish Steel manufacturers and exporters,” he said.

In his remarks, the chairman of the board, Mr. Namık Ekinci, described Nigeria as a key emerging market and potential strategic partner in the steel sector.

The Nigerian delegation was led by the Nigeria Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) whose president, Mr Herb Ademola Ajayi described the massive presence of business experts at the parley as an indication of a bright future for infrastructural development in Nigeria.

In addition to joint economic committee meetings, both nations have trade involvement valued at about $1.2 billion in 2011; and with the business parley, it is expected that figures will continue to increase.