Germany and Nigeria Strengthen Economic and Migration Cooperation

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has emphasized Nigeria's importance as a key partner of Berlin in Africa, expressing a desire to deepen cooperation following discussions with his Nigerian counterpart, Yusuf Tuggar. Wadephul highlighted the African continent as the "continent of the future" for both the European Union and Germany, noting numerous opportunities to expand economic cooperation, particularly in areas like rare earths. He encouraged greater involvement of the German private sector in Nigeria, citing Volkswagen as a positive example. Discussions also addressed the issue of migrants and refugees crossing the Mediterranean Sea into Europe, with both ministers agreeing to cooperate closely to tackle this problem.
Tuggar underscored Nigeria's position as Germany's second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa and indicated the potential for increased trade relations, especially in critical raw materials. He also announced closer collaboration in the energy sector, including renewable energies and labor migration. With a population exceeding 220 million and projections estimating 400 million by 2050, Tuggar emphasized Nigeria's focus on exporting talent rather than people, seeking structured solutions with countries like Germany for job creation and addressing irregular migration.
The German Ministry of Foreign Affairs views Nigeria as a crucial player in promoting regional stability and democracy, recognizing its significant economic potential. Past collaborations include a visit by German President Steinmeier with a business delegation in December and the German-Nigerian Binational Commission, established in 2011, focusing on business, energy, politics, culture, and migration. Cultural relations received renewed impetus with the return of the Benin Bronzes to Nigeria in December 2022. Furthermore, Germany supports Nigeria in combating terrorist threats through training and equipping security forces, as well as contributing to transnational stabilization projects.
Energy cooperation is a key focus of bilateral economic relations, exemplified by the German-Nigerian Energy Partnership, which expanded in 2021 to include a hydrogen office in Abuja, aligning with Germany's National Hydrogen Strategy. Development cooperation priorities encompass sustainable economic development, vocational training, employment, rural development, expanding renewables, and healthcare.