Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria in energy, trade and investment, describing the country as a strategic partner and a reliable supplier helping to strengthen Europe’s energy security.
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul made the pledge during a reception in Lagos ahead of high-level talks with Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu. He said recent geopolitical tensions had highlighted Nigeria’s growing role in Europe’s energy supply chain, noting that Nigeria accounted for about 25 per cent of Europe’s jet fuel imports in June.
Wadephul said Germany plans to expand the existing German-Nigerian Energy Partnership beyond oil and gas by increasing collaboration in renewable energy. He added that German industries were ready to support Nigeria’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions while unlocking its vast gas resources.
The minister also praised Nigeria’s contribution to regional security, particularly its role in combating terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin. He noted that Germany had continued to support the country through military training, equipment and funding for regional stabilisation initiatives.
Members of the German business delegation described Nigeria as a country with enormous economic potential, highlighting opportunities in information technology, climate protection, digitalisation and cybersecurity. They expressed optimism about building stronger business partnerships with Nigerian companies.
German business leaders further said Nigeria’s removal from the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) grey list had boosted investor confidence and could help improve financing conditions, paving the way for increased investment in Africa’s largest economy.
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