President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany, with renewed collaboration focused on security, power infrastructure, rail development, creative arts and skills training.
The two leaders reached the understanding during a telephone conversation on Wednesday afternoon, where they reviewed areas of mutual interest and strategic cooperation between both countries.
Power Sector Collaboration
A major highlight of the discussion was Nigeria’s ongoing Presidential Power Initiative. President Tinubu indicated that while progress is being made, the country would require additional support, particularly in power transmission infrastructure.
Chancellor Merz assured that Siemens would be ready to provide technical assistance in that regard. He also noted that Deutsche Bank would be willing to explore financing options to support the project.
The collaboration is expected to deepen Germany’s involvement in Nigeria’s power sector reform, which remains central to the country’s economic growth and industrialisation agenda.
Security Concerns Over the Sahel
Both leaders expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region. President Tinubu stressed the need for enhanced intelligence reconnaissance to address instability along the corridor.
“The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed,” the Nigerian leader said, while calling for the supply of used helicopters to bolster surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts.
The renewed security dialogue signals closer cooperation between both countries in tackling transnational threats affecting West Africa.
Rail, Creative Arts and Skills Development
Beyond security and power, the leaders also discussed expanding collaboration in the railway sector, as well as partnerships in creative arts and vocational skills development.
Chancellor Merz emphasised the importance of cultural exchange and called for the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts, underscoring Germany’s interest in supporting African cultural institutions.
He also expressed anticipation over the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany, describing it as a step that would further consolidate diplomatic engagement between the two nations.
Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for approximately 65 years, with cooperation spanning trade, energy, manufacturing, and development support.
The telephone conversation, which began at 2:01 p.m. and ended at about 2:10 p.m., reflects both countries’ commitment to elevating their partnership amid evolving regional and global challenges.
