The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, will on Wednesday receive Germany’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Johann Wadephul, in Abuja for high-level bilateral consultations aimed at strengthening diplomatic and economic ties between both countries.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed this in a statement issued by its spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa, saying the visit underscores the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and Germany.
According to the ministry, the relationship is built on mutual respect, shared democratic values, economic cooperation, and a joint commitment to promoting regional and global peace, security, stability and sustainable development.
It noted that Germany remains one of Nigeria’s key strategic partners in Europe, with collaboration covering trade and investment, renewable energy, climate action, technical assistance, education, healthcare, migration, agriculture, digital innovation and security.
The statement said both ministers would review the progress made in implementing existing bilateral agreements and examine ways of expanding cooperation.
It added that discussions would focus on boosting economic and commercial partnerships, attracting greater German investment into Nigeria’s priority sectors, strengthening renewable energy and green industrialisation, promoting vocational education and skills development, and expanding collaboration in science, technology and innovation.
The ministry stated, “The Federal Government of Nigeria values its strategic partnership with the Federal Republic of Germany and remains committed to deepening bilateral cooperation in areas of shared interest for the mutual benefit of both countries and their peoples.”
It added, “Nigeria looks forward to productive engagements that will further consolidate the existing friendship and open new avenues for collaboration in support of inclusive economic growth, regional stability and shared prosperity.”
The ministry expressed confidence that Wadephul’s visit would further strengthen relations between both countries while reaffirming their commitment to addressing common global challenges through dialogue and partnership.
Meanwhile, Odumegwu-Ojukwu revealed that she also held bilateral talks with Portugal’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, on the sidelines of the Eurafrican Forum.
She said both countries explored the establishment of a Nigeria-Portugal Joint Commission to institutionalise political consultations and deepen bilateral cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu said Nigeria was ready to strengthen collaboration with Portugal in trade and investment, renewable energy, maritime security, digital technology, agriculture, education, defence cooperation and capacity development.
She added that discussions also covered the Bilateral Air Services Agreement and the Double Taxation Agreement, which are expected to improve connectivity, facilitate commercial activities and create a more favourable investment climate for businesses in both countries.