Germany and Nigeria pledge to deepen economic ties, cooperation on migration, and cultural exchange as key partners in Africa.
The foreign ministers of Germany and Nigeria have pledged to deepen their countries’ partnership in areas such as the economy, energy, and migration. ‘The German Minister of Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, described Nigeria as a key partner for Berlin in Africa, emphasizing the potential for expanded economic cooperation.’
The bilateral relationship between Germany and Nigeria has been growing steadily over the years.
In 2017, both countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, security, and education.
Germany is one of Nigeria's largest trading partners, with bilateral trade valued at over €1 billion annually.
The partnership also focuses on promoting German investments in Nigeria's key sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and energy.
A significant area of focus is the exploitation of rare earths, abundant in many parts of Africa, which Germany sees as an opportunity to strengthen its economic ties with African countries. ‘The German private sector has been encouraged to become more involved in Nigeria, using Volkswagen as a positive example of this.’ Additionally, Wadephul highlighted the issue of migrants and refugees crossing the Mediterranean Sea and heading to Europe, specifically Germany.
Deepening Trade Relations
Nigeria is already Germany’s second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, according to Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar. He emphasized that intensifying trade relations, particularly in critical raw materials, could further strengthen their economic partnership. The Nigerian minister also announced closer cooperation in the energy sector, including on renewable energies.
The bilateral trade between Nigeria and Germany has been steadily increasing over the years.
In 2020, Nigeria's exports to Germany totaled €1.3 billion, while imports from Germany reached €2.5 billion.
The main export commodities include 'oil,' natural gas, and agricultural products.
Germany's key exports to Nigeria include machinery, vehicles, and electronics.
To further enhance trade cooperation, both countries have established joint committees on trade and investment, promoting economic growth and development in the region.
Tuggar acknowledged Nigeria’s vast potential for economic growth, with over 220 million inhabitants projected to reach 400 million by 2050. He stressed that the goal is not to export people but to export talent, working with countries like Germany on structured solutions to job creation and tackling irregular migration issues.
Cultural Exchange and Development Cooperation
The German-Nigerian Binational Commission has been instrumental in promoting cultural exchange and cooperation between the two nations. The commission’s working groups cover areas such as business, energy, politics, culture, and migration. ‘A recent development was the return of the first Benin Bronzes to Nigeria, marking a new impetus for cultural relations.’
Germany is also committed to supporting Nigeria’s development through various priorities, including sustainable economic development, vocational training, employment, rural development, expanding renewables, and healthcare. The energy sector has been identified as a key focus area for bilateral economic relations, with the German-Nigerian Energy Partnership playing a crucial role in this endeavor.
Germany has been a significant economic partner to Nigeria, providing financial assistance and investment opportunities.
According to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), Germany provided €1.4 billion in development aid to Nigeria between 2016 and 2020.
This support focused on infrastructure development, education, and healthcare.
Additionally, German companies have invested heavily in Nigeria's oil and gas sector, with TotalEnergies and Siemens being prominent examples.
The economic partnership has created jobs and stimulated growth in key sectors.
Combating Terrorism and Promoting Stability
The German government is actively involved in combating terrorist threats through training and equipping Nigerian security forces and contributing to transnational stabilization projects. This cooperation aligns with Germany’s efforts to promote stability and democracy in the broader region, recognizing Nigeria as a key player in African affairs.
