Nigeria has called for stronger economic and skills partnerships with Germany, with Ambassador Senator Ita Enang highlighting opportunities in green energy, technology, education, vocational training and skilled migration.
Enang made the call in Berlin while delivering a speech at Nigeria’s 66th Independence Day anniversary celebration on October 1, 2026, attended by members of the diplomatic corps, German government officials, representatives of African countries and Nigerians living in Germany.
The ambassador said Nigeria and Germany had built a longstanding relationship based on “shared values, mutual respect, democratic principles, and common economic goals,” covering trade, investment, energy transition, education and sustainable development.
He said Germany’s industrial strength and workforce capabilities, alongside its skills requirements, presented opportunities for skilled Nigerians to contribute to the German economy.
“This presents opportunities for young, skilled and endowed citizens of the world to seek opportunities in the country,” Enang said, adding that Nigeria had young and skilled citizens who could fill such opportunities through appropriate processes.
According to him, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had been repositioning Nigeria’s education system to produce highly skilled professionals in areas including medicine, engineering, technology, academia and the creative industries.
Enang said Nigeria was also creating and redirecting specialised institutions towards professionalism, entrepreneurship and skills development.
He described Germany as a “trusted partner” in Nigeria’s national development agenda and said both countries should deepen cooperation in green energy, technological innovation, infrastructure, education, the creative industry, skilled circular migration and vocational training.
The ambassador also expressed appreciation to the German government and people for their “warm embrace” of Nigerians in Germany and their integration into the country’s economy and society.
He said Nigeria’s relationship with Germany was part of a broader commitment to strengthening international and African cooperation through institutions including the United Nations, African Union, World Trade Organisation and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Enang also urged Nigerians living in Germany and across Europe to remain united, law-abiding and committed to contributing to both Nigeria and their host communities.
“You are our proud Ambassadors,” he told Nigerians abroad, praising their “intellect, hard work, and cultural vibrance” for enhancing Nigeria’s global reputation.
The ambassador also relayed President Tinubu’s Independence Day message, in which the President said Nigeria had “corrected its course” and urged citizens to move forward with renewed confidence in the country.
“I believe in the millions of ordinary men and women whose work, courage and determination have always been the true strength of our country,” Tinubu said in the message.
Enang concluded the anniversary celebration by calling for stronger friendship between Nigeria and Germany, African unity and continued progress for Nigeria.
