The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its strong commitment to deepening strategic ties with the European Union (EU), as the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) prepares to launch its first West African office in Lagos.
This development follows Nigeria’s official admission as the EBRD’s 77th shareholder in February 2025, marking a pivotal step in the bank’s incremental expansion into sub-Saharan Africa, as approved by its Board of Governors in 2023.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a courtesy visit by Ambassador Gautier Mignot, Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Vice President Kashim Shettima praised the EU’s longstanding support for Nigeria. He highlighted the growing opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure, and youth empowerment.
Vice President Shettima underscored that Nigeria is entering a transformative era of economic openness under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that bold reforms have been initiated to address key structural challenges in the economy.
“More than ever before, Nigeria is ready for business,” the Vice President declared. He emphasized that the partnership with the EU transcends economic interests, citing the bloc’s vital humanitarian and stabilisation efforts in conflict-affected regions such as Borno State, where he previously served as governor.
In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), Ambassador Mignot reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to fostering a reliable partnership with Nigeria amid a volatile global political climate.
He noted that Nigeria remains a priority for the European Union in West Africa, given the region’s strategic importance and interconnected destinies.
“The EU believes in free and fair trade, mutual partnerships, and respect for sovereignty. West Africa and Nigeria are top priorities for us because we are neighbours, and our futures are closely linked,” Ambassador Mignot stated.
The EU envoy also reiterated the bloc’s support for the United Nations Charter, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and global gender equality initiatives.
