President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and Germany, with renewed focus on security, electricity transmission and railway development.
During a telephone conversation on Wednesday afternoon, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation across key sectors, including creative industries and skills development.
According to a statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, discussions centred significantly on the Presidential Power Initiative. President Tinubu indicated that Nigeria would require further support, particularly in power transmission infrastructure. In response, Chancellor Merz stated that Siemens would be prepared to provide technical assistance, while Deutsche Bank could support financing arrangements for the project.
Security in the Sahel region also featured prominently in the talks. President Tinubu highlighted growing instability in the Sahel corridor and called for enhanced intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities. He specifically requested the provision of used helicopters to strengthen surveillance operations in the region.
“The Sahel corridor is deteriorating and requires collective support. Intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities are essential,” Tinubu said.
Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for approximately 65 years, and both leaders expressed interest in further consolidating that longstanding partnership.
Chancellor Merz said Germany looks forward to welcoming Nigeria’s incoming ambassador and underscored the importance of cultural collaboration. He also advocated for the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts as a platform for cultural exchange and heritage promotion.
The telephone discussion commenced at 2:01 p.m. and concluded at about 2:10 p.m. on Wednesday.