ABUJA — The European Union has unveiled fresh funding and cooperation plans for Nigeria, including €45 million in security and stabilisation support, as both sides intensify efforts to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties.
The development emerged during a meeting between Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, in Abuja, according to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa.
Mignot disclosed that €20 million has been earmarked under the European Peace Facility to enhance Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations with advanced equipment, while an additional €25 million programme is being prepared to stabilise the North-West.
He also highlighted plans for a €25 million agricultural initiative targeting dairy and cocoa value chains to boost food production and exports.
Beyond funding, the EU signalled broader engagement with Nigeria, including ongoing talks on migration, science and technology cooperation, and expanded trade and investment frameworks.
“The visit would provide an important platform for further consolidating the strategic partnership,” Mignot said, referring to the proposed visit of President Bola Tinubu to Brussels, expected later in 2026.
In response, Odumegwu-Ojukwu welcomed the growing EU support, describing the bloc as a key partner in Nigeria’s development agenda.
She reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening cooperation across critical sectors, including security, infrastructure, renewable energy and innovation.
“The European Union remains one of Nigeria’s foremost trading and development partners,” she said.
The minister also commended the EU’s role in supporting Nigeria’s security efforts and regional peace initiatives, particularly in addressing complex threats such as terrorism and banditry.
Discussions further covered democratic governance, migration, and regional developments within ECOWAS, with the EU indicating plans to deploy an Electoral Expert Mission to support Nigeria’s upcoming elections.
Both sides agreed that deepening collaboration would not only enhance security and economic growth but also reinforce Nigeria’s position as a strategic partner in Africa.
The meeting concluded with renewed commitment to sustained engagement and stronger bilateral cooperation, ahead of the planned presidential visit to Brussels.
