Irish foreign minister to visit Nigeria as economy attract foreign investors

Irish foreign affairs and trade minister, Helen McEntee, on Tuesday, January 27, announced that she will visit Nigeria as the economy continues to attract foreign investors.

In a statement released on Tuesday, McEntee disclosed that the Taoiseach, the Tánaiste, and other state representatives will visit Nigeria and 49 countries worldwide as part of the St Patrick’s Day programme for 2026.

“St. Patrick’s Day provides an unparalleled opportunity to showcase Ireland on the global stage and to engage at the highest levels with political, business, civil society, cultural, and diaspora leaders. This year, 40 representatives of the state will carry Ireland’s message to cities across more than 50 countries worldwide,” McEntee said.

“The theme for St. Patrick’s Day 2026 will highlight Ireland’s place in the world as a small, open trading economy. It will reflect our economic success, built on openness and strong partnerships, and Ireland’s long-standing commitment to multilateralism.”

St Patrick’s Day 2026 will also celebrate the Irish diaspora, whose members continue to make positive contributions to communities around the world.

The programme will showcase Ireland’s rich cultural heritage alongside its dynamic contemporary arts.

Aligned with the government’s action plan on market diversification, the 2026 programme will place a stronger emphasis on trade and investment.

Ministers will promote trade, investment, tourism, and international research and education partnerships in key locations, including high-value, new, and emerging markets.

Ahead of Ireland’s presidency of the council of the European Union (EU) in the second half of 2026, ministers traveling within Europe will engage with counterparts on preparations for the presidency and underscore the government’s commitment to shaping EU policy and decision-making.

In the United States (U.S), 2026 marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the American declaration of independence.

The St Patrick’s Day programme will provide an opportunity to highlight the significant contributions of Irish people to the founding of the U.S, as well as their impact on its political, economic, and social development over the past 250 years.