Germany-Nigeria trade volume has surged by 30%, reaching €3 billion, according to Ambassador Annett Gunther.
The increase is attributed to Nigeria’s ongoing economic recovery.
Speaking ahead of the Nigerian-German Binational Commission meeting in Berlin, Gunther emphasised Nigeria’s role as Germany’s second-largest trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.
She noted that over 90 German companies operate in Nigeria, supporting approximately 17,000 jobs.
Gunther said further investments are expected, particularly in energy and pharmaceuticals. She confirmed that the Presidential Power Initiative has entered its second phase, signalling continued collaboration in the energy sector.
On migration, Gunther revealed that German missions in Nigeria issued around 7,600 visas last year. These included 1,400 long-term visas for study, family reunification, and employment, and 6,200 short-term visas for business and tourism.
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She stressed the importance of legal migration, stating, “All the common goals and projects would not work if they were not supported by travel on all levels between our two countries, plus legal migration.”
Germany plans to increase visa issuance in 2025 and expand its processing network across Africa. Gunther affirmed that German missions remain committed to strengthening bilateral ties through properly documented visa applications.
Military cooperation also remains a priority, with Germany pledging continued support to Nigeria’s defence efforts.
Established in 2011, the Binational Commission fosters collaboration in business, education, energy, migration, and culture. It serves as a strategic platform for bilateral engagement.
Germany recently announced plans to expand technical cooperation with Nigeria to develop a green hydrogen supply chain. This includes production, transportation, storage, and utilisation.
“We are actively exploring opportunities to enhance relationships, technology transfer, and joint research initiatives in the hydrogen sector,” Gunther said.
