The publication highlights the main messages from Ambassador's speech at a reception on the occasion of the 26th anniversary of Independence of Ukraine. In particular, regarding the significant potential of bilateral cooperation, the importance of expanding the legal framework of bilateral relations, Ukraine's readiness to expand cooperation with Nigeria in such areas as economy, education, military-technical cooperation. The possible negative consequences of implementing the decision of closing the Nigerian diplomatic mission in Kyiv are also analyzed, as well as an appeal to the Nigerian side to reconsider this decision.