Full diplomatic relations were established between both countries shortly after Nigeria gained independence in 1960, but were severed in 1973 in compliance with the then Organization of African Unity, OAU resolution, sponsored by Arab countries. Addressing the well-attended cultural show, the Israeli Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Moshe Ram described the restoration of diplomatic relations as a significant diplomatic move which symbolized the return of Israel to the most important country in the African continent, after an absence of almost 19 years.

He recalled that during the 1960s and early 70s when Israel first established diplomatic ties with Nigeria, the country played a significant role in the development of Sub- Sahara Africa, including Nigeria, adding that as part of the Israeli government's African policy, hundreds of Israeli experts and volunteers were sent to help in the continent's development and modernization of agriculture, educational network, medical institutions and technological training programs.

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The Ambassador also disclosed that hundreds of Nigerian farmers, experts, educators, academicians, students, doctors, community workers and engineers were trained in Israel through MASHAV - the Israeli agency for International Development Cooperation, just as top level ministerial meetings of both countries and friendly relations, beneficial to both peoples, were also developed and explored. Ambassador Ram stated that the strengthening of political and economic ties coincided with the tightening of relations between the people of Israel and Nigeria at all levels especially in organizing annual pilgrimages from Nigeria to Israel, every year - the largest spiritual exercise from any part of the world.​

He observed that the marking of the 20 years of relations coincided with the celebration of the Jewish holiday of Shavout (Pentecost). The feast of Shavout, he explained is one of three Pilgrims festivals in which Jews used on the biblical era to fulfill their religious obligations by walking to the Temple Mount in Jerusalem. According to him, as it is very relevant to Nigeria, this festival has a very meaningful agricultural connotations and this is due to the first wheat harvesting which occurs during this season. “It is with great satisfaction that we are able to incorporate the celebration of these two events. The plants have been sown 20 years ago and time of harvesting has come”, he stressed ​

“Due to Israel’s unique geopolitical position in the region and its lack of natural resources, there was no alternative but to utilize our human resources, thus developing for example one of the most advanced agricultural capabilities in the world. One of the most significant commandments in Judaism is the moral obligation of sharing”, he added.​

He specifically recognized and paid glowing tributes to  his Nigerian counterparts who had served as Ambassadors to Israel, namely  Chief Ignatius Olisemeka, (1992 – 1998); Prof George Obiozor (1998-2003); Senator Anthony Manzo (2003-2007) and Mr. Dada Olisa (2007-2011). ​​