Nigeria and Sweden are set to strengthen their bilateral cooperation, with a focus on trade, sustainable development, gender equality, and cultural exchange. This commitment was reiterated by Nigeria's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, during the official visit of Her Royal Highness Victoria, Crown Princess of Sweden, to Abuja. The visit is part of ongoing high-level dialogues aimed at enhancing collaboration between the two countries, with key areas for cooperation including trade, investment, infrastructure, agriculture, peacekeeping, and reciprocal support agreements. Previous visits, including one by Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shetima, to Sweden in October, have laid the groundwork for this enhanced partnership.

Crown Princess Victoria expressed her appreciation for the warm reception and reiterated the commitment to strengthening ties between the two nations. Sweden's Minister for Infrastructure and Housing, Andreas Carisson, highlighted the successful diplomatic relations between Sweden and Nigeria, noting that they will celebrate 65 years of bilateral relations next year. Opportunities in infrastructure and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) were also discussed, with Swedish companies like Ericsson already investing in Nigeria. The royal visit included a meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Governor of Lagos, and the inauguration of the Swedish Trade Office in Lagos.

In other news, rising boxing stars Mohammed Amadu and Ebenezer Ankrah led Ghana to a 3-2 victory over Nigeria in an international amateur boxing showdown at Bukom Park. The highly-anticipated six-bout contest featured a single female clash and two Pan-African title fights, bringing the historic Bukom enclave to a standstill. Amadu, the reigning SWAG Boxer of the Year and Accra 2023 gold medalist, overcame a fierce challenge from Nigeria’s Michael Ogunremi to clinch a special Pan-African title. Ankrah also delivered a dominant performance against Salawu Ridwan, securing another pivotal win for Ghana. Desmond Pappoe sealed the overall victory for Ghana with a win in the deciding bout.

The contest between Amadu and Ogunremi was intense, with Ogunremi launching relentless attacks from the opening bell. However, Amadu's sharp counterpunching and tactical approach allowed him to navigate the pressure. The fight was eventually stopped due to a deep cut above Ogunremi’s eye, leading to Amadu being awarded a unanimous points decision. Ankrah's performance against Ridwan was equally impressive, with Ridwan struggling to cope with Ankrah's speed and accuracy. In other bouts, Mathias Ashitey's fight ended in a draw due to a cut above the eye, while Nigeria secured wins in the 57kg and 60kg female contests. However, Pappoe's victory in the deciding bout ensured Ghana's overall win.

The night also featured the season finale of the “Street to Champions” series, with winners in various juvenile and amateur categories walking away with cash prizes. This initiative provides young fighters with their first experience of a fight purse, encouraging their development and participation in the sport.