By Gabriel Ameh
ABUJA – Germany has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic and security cooperation with Nigeria, pledging increased investment and deeper collaboration across key sectors.
Speaking during an official engagement in Abuja, the German Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, described Nigeria as Germany’s largest bilateral trading partner in Europe-Africa relations and highlighted the enduring partnership between both countries, which spans more than 65 years.
The minister recalled that Germany established its embassy in Lagos just three days after Nigeria gained independence in 1960, describing the gesture as a reflection of the strong diplomatic relationship that has continued to grow over the decades.
According to Wadephul, trade between Nigeria and Germany increased by 10 per cent in the past year, demonstrating the growing economic ties between both nations.
He expressed confidence that the Nigeria-Germany Business Forum would further strengthen commercial relations and disclosed that his visit, alongside senior government officials and business leaders, would encourage more German companies to invest in Nigeria.
The German Foreign Minister also highlighted Germany’s interest in Nigeria’s energy sector, noting that the Nigeria-Germany Bilateral Commission continues to provide an effective platform for advancing cooperation in strategic sectors.
On regional security, Wadephul reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in addressing terrorism, violent extremism and other security challenges affecting the Sahel and the wider West African region.
He also expressed his readiness to work closely with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to further strengthen bilateral relations and promote mutual economic growth, peace and regional stability.
