President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany, with a focus on security, electricity, and railway development.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga in a statement said the two leaders reached the understanding during a telephone conversation on Wednesday afternoon, where they also signalled readiness to collaborate in the areas of creative arts and skills development.
Discussions during the call covered Nigeria’s Presidential Power Initiative, with President Tinubu highlighting the country’s need for support in improving power transmission infrastructure.
In response, Chancellor Merz assured that German engineering giant Siemens would be available to provide technical assistance, while Deutsche Bank indicated willingness to finance the project.
Both leaders expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region. President Tinubu stressed the urgency of intelligence and reconnaissance support, calling for the provision of used helicopters to bolster surveillance operations in the corridor.
“The Sahel corridor is troubled and requires our collective backing. Intelligence reconnaissance support is essential,” the President said.
Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for approximately 65 years. Chancellor Merz noted that Germany looks forward to welcoming Nigeria’s incoming ambassador.
He also underscored the significance of cultural cooperation and advocated for the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts.
