ABUJA — Germany has signalled increased investment interest in Nigeria’s energy sector as both countries seek to expand economic cooperation and strengthen long-standing bilateral ties.
German Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, made this known during bilateral talks in Abuja, noting that more German investors are expected to enter the Nigerian market following his visit.
“As Nigeria’s biggest European trading partner bilaterally, the volume of trade grew by 10 per cent last year,” Wadephul said, adding that the Nigeria-Germany Business Forum would continue to deepen commercial engagement between both nations.
He emphasised Germany’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in energy and other key sectors, while reaffirming support for regional security efforts in West Africa.
The meeting also highlighted over 65 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Germany, with Wadephul recalling that Germany established its embassy in Lagos just days after Nigeria gained independence in 1960.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, described the partnership as strategic and multi-dimensional, spanning trade, investment, education, security and development cooperation.
Her remarks were contained in a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and signed by spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
“Germany has remained one of Nigeria’s most important strategic partners in Europe,” she said, stressing the need to deepen collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, digital innovation, manufacturing and infrastructure.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also encouraged greater participation of German businesses in Nigeria’s economy, citing ongoing reforms aimed at improving the investment climate and boosting private sector growth.
Both ministers underscored the importance of the Nigeria-Germany Bi-national Commission as a key mechanism for advancing bilateral cooperation and addressing emerging challenges.
On regional security, Wadephul reiterated Germany’s support for ECOWAS in tackling terrorism and violent extremism in the Sahel, while Nigeria welcomed continued collaboration to strengthen peace and stability across West Africa.
The talks are expected to pave the way for increased trade, investment and strategic cooperation between both countries.
