Germany has reaffirmed its strong partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) by committing €49 million (₦82 billion) to support peace, security, health, and sustainable economic development across the region.
The pledge was made during a two-day bilateral negotiation on development cooperation held in Abuja.
The German delegation was led by Ambassador Annett Günther and Mr. Christoph Rauh, Director for Africa at Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). ECOWAS was represented by Vice President Damtien L. Tchintchibidja, who praised Germany’s enduring partnership and contribution to regional integration and peace.
“Through our efforts and equitable partnerships, we are working assiduously towards deeper integration, enhanced peace and security with the ultimate goal of building an inclusive, resilient, and prosperous region,” Vice President Tchintchibidja said. She further expressed appreciation to Germany’s BMZ for “its consistency and convergence around shared priorities.”
Ambassador Günther reaffirmed Germany’s long-standing commitment to West Africa’s progress, stating:
“Germany stands firmly with ECOWAS as a trusted partner, united by shared values of peace, stability, and inclusive growth. Our cooperation is not only about financial support and projects, but about empowering institutions, strengthening democracy, and improving the lives of people across the region.”
Mr. Christoph Rauh, in a remark, emphasized that the German-ECOWAS partnership is anchored on mutual respect and a shared vision for peace and prosperity.
“Our cooperation reflects a shared commitment to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, create economic opportunities, and strengthen regional solidarity. Together, we are building bridges between people, economies, and institutions for a better future,” he said.
The negotiations also addressed key regional challenges, including political transitions, economic instability, and security threats. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to ECOWAS Vision 2050 and Germany’s Africa Strategy, which align on promoting sustainable governance, regional integration, and climate-friendly development.
Germany has been a strategic ECOWAS partner since 1985, funding projects in peacebuilding, governance, climate resilience, pandemic control, and trade facilitation. The latest commitment includes €32.8 million for financial cooperation and €16.2 million for technical projects to strengthen institutions and empower communities across the region.
