Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria through enhanced economic cooperation, job creation, security support, and energy transition partnerships.
Speaking at a news conference to mark Germany’s National Day and 65 years of Nigeria–Germany diplomatic relations in Abuja, the German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annette Günther, described the relationship between both nations as one built on shared democratic values, mutual respect, and practical cooperation.
“Nigeria is Germany’s second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, with a trade volume of €3 billion,” Ambassador Günther noted. “More than 90 German companies are active in Nigeria, indirectly creating over 17,000 jobs — and that number continues to grow, especially in the energy and pharmaceutical sectors.”
The envoy said the German-Nigerian Binational Commission, scheduled to hold in Berlin in early November, would serve as a “watershed moment” to further elevate ties between both countries. The commission will bring together officials from both nations to discuss key areas including trade, security, energy, education, migration, and cultural exchange.
“Our goal is to move from cooperation to true partnership in value — partners who share responsibility on their continents and work together to shape a peaceful and prosperous world,” she said.
Highlighting key economic collaborations, Ambassador Günther referenced the Presidential Power Initiative, a partnership with Siemens to boost Nigeria’s electricity supply by adding about 7 gigawatts to the national grid. She also reaffirmed Germany’s support for Nigeria’s efforts to eliminate gas flaring and improve its carbon footprint, noting that clean energy remains a top priority in bilateral cooperation.
On security, the envoy stated that Germany has been a reliable ally in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, providing training, technical support, and strategic assistance through the Bundeswehr Technical Advisory Group.
“Germany will continue to stand with Nigeria in combating terrorism. Next month, high-level military staff talks will take place in Abuja — a first in our cooperation and an important step toward even closer collaboration,” she said.
The ambassador also addressed Germany’s ongoing support for humanitarian and development initiatives in Nigeria, particularly in regions affected by conflict, food insecurity, and climate change.
“Humanitarian assistance can provide short-term relief, but sustainable change must come from within,” she explained. “Our partnership with Nigeria focuses on building resilience — in communities, governance, and food systems — so that long-term progress can take root.”
Ambassador Günther reaffirmed Germany’s continued investment in education and cultural exchange, announcing that the Goethe-Institut will expand its German language classes to Abuja for the first time. She also highlighted plans to deepen cooperation with Nigeria’s film industry, describing Nollywood as “a strong international force with immense creative potential.”
“We believe in equitable development and shared prosperity,” she concluded. “A secure and prosperous Nigeria is also in Germany’s interest — because when Nigeria thrives, Africa thrives.”
The German Embassy also used the occasion to reaffirm its openness to media collaboration, acknowledging the vital role of the Nigerian press in strengthening democracy and public accountability.
