German foreign minister to visit Nigeria as Berlin seeks stronger trade, security ties

Johann Wadephul, Germany’s Foreign Minister, will visit Nigeria next week for talks aimed at strengthening political, economic and security cooperation, as Berlin looks to deepen ties with one of its most important partners in Africa.

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Wadephul will be in Lagos and Abuja on July 21 and 22 for meetings with senior Nigerian officials, business leaders and regional representatives. He will also be accompanied by a delegation of chief executives, senior executives from German companies in the information technology and energy sectors, as well as members of the German parliament.

In Abuja, the German foreign minister is expected to meet with Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Omar Touray, President of the Economic Community of West African States Commission. Their discussions will focus on regional developments, peace and security, economic integration and ways to strengthen cooperation between Germany and West Africa.

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The Lagos leg of the visit will centre on business and cultural engagement. Wadephul will attend a business roundtable with German and Nigerian companies to explore new trade and investment opportunities. He will also meet with civil society groups and cultural practitioners.

The German government said the visit reflects the close relationship between the two countries and its commitment to expanding cooperation across the region.

“Germany and Nigeria share a strong partnership based on mutual respect and common interests,” the statement said.

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It added that, “As Africa’s largest economy and one of Germany’s most important partners on the continent, Nigeria plays a key role in addressing global challenges ranging from sustainable economic development and energy transition to regional peace and security.”

According to the statement, the visit underscores Germany’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Nigeria and West Africa in areas including economic development, energy transition and regional stability.