President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have reached an understanding to deepen diplomatic and economic relations between Nigeria and Germany, with focus placed on security, electricity, and railway infrastructure.
Details of the discussion were disclosed in a statement issued on Wednesday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, both leaders held a telephone conversation on Wednesday where they explored areas of mutual partnership. Their talks also covered cooperation in the creative industry and vocational training, an indication that both countries intend to widen collaboration beyond conventional sectors.
Speaking on Nigeria’s electricity challenges, President Tinubu highlighted the country’s transmission needs. He said, “We will require assistance with power transmission as part of our Presidential Power Initiative.”
In response, Chancellor Merz assured Nigeria of German support. He stated, “Siemens is ready to assist, and Deutsche Bank is willing to finance the project.”
Security concerns in the Sahel region also featured prominently during the exchange. President Tinubu stressed the urgency of international backing to tackle instability across the corridor.
He said, “The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed.”
Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for about 65 years. Chancellor Merz welcomed moves to reinforce those ties. He noted, “We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany.”
The German leader further underlined the role of culture in strengthening bilateral relations. He advocated for the creation of the Great Museum of African Arts as a platform for cultural connection.
The phone discussion reportedly commenced at 2:01 pm and concluded at about 2:10 pm.
