posted 24th February 2025
EU Ambassador Visits Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Abuja, Nigeria – In a significant diplomatic engagement, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria, His Excellency Gautier Mignot, met with Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, to discuss ongoing collaborations and future opportunities for strengthening bilateral ties. The meeting focused on the progress made in the EU-Nigeria Roadmap, which encompasses five strategic tracks: Strategic Partnership; The Economy, Growth, and Green Partnership; Peace, Governance, and Social Development; Humanitarian Assistance; and Migration and Mobility.
During the discussions, both parties acknowledged the EU’s vital role as the leading contributor of humanitarian aid to Nigeria. Economic relations between the EU and Nigeria continue to thrive, with trade between the two entities reaching $24.6 billion in 2023. These figures highlight the deep economic interdependence and the potential for further growth and investment.
Nigeria is eager to expand cooperation with the EU across several sectors, including oil and gas, coal power generation, security, maritime operations, agriculture, and the justice system. Health sector collaboration was also discussed, with a particular emphasis on local vaccine production. Additionally, the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) remains a key focus to drive economic growth and employment opportunities.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ambitious agenda to revamp 3,000 training centres to equip three million young Nigerians with technological skills was also a key highlight of the meeting. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s vision for technological advancement and a knowledge-driven economy.
To further cement economic cooperation, Nigeria proposed establishing a European Investment Bank (EIB) office in Abuja, a move anticipated to enhance financial collaboration and investment opportunities. Ambassador Mignot, in turn, reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Nigeria’s economic development, highlighting the success of the EU-Nigeria Business Forum and the contributions of the European Chamber of Commerce (EUROCHAM) in fostering trade, investment, and exchanges between European and Nigerian businesses.
With a shared commitment to deepening relations, both parties expressed confidence in the future of EU-Nigeria cooperation. As discussions continue, the partnership is expected to yield tangible benefits in various sectors, reinforcing economic growth, security, and social development in Nigeria.
