President Bola Tinubu welcomed German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier to the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Wednesday morning. Steinmeier arrived in Abuja on Tuesday evening and met with President Tinubu at the Forecourt of the Villa at 11:06 am local time on Wednesday.
Accompanying Delegation and Ceremonial Reception
Steinmeier was accompanied by a business delegation of CEOs and high-ranking board members from some of Germany’s most successful companies in IT, high-tech, and energy. Upon his arrival, Steinmeier was greeted with the German and Nigerian anthems, followed by an inspection of the Guard of Honour mounted by the Presidential Brigade of Guards. After the 21-gun salute, President Tinubu led Steinmeier into his office for closed-door talks.
Meetings and Engagements
According to the German Embassy, Steinmeier will meet with President Tinubu and the President of the Commission of Economic Community of West African States, Dr. Alieu Touray. He will then proceed to Lagos, where he will engage with business representatives, visit a start-up hub, and meet with members of Nigeria’s cultural sector and civil society, including Dr. Nike Okundaye and Prof. Wole Soyinka.
Historical Context and Bilateral Relations
Steinmeier’s visit continues over six decades of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Germany, sustained by high-level visits dating back to 1978. This visit marks Steinmeier’s first trip to Nigeria, following in the footsteps of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, who visited in October 2023.
Economic Cooperation and Trade
Nigeria and Germany have a long history of economic cooperation, with Germany being one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners. In 2022, Nigeria exported €1.9 billion euros of oil to Germany, while Germany exported goods valued at €1.1 billion euros to Nigeria. The two countries have also collaborated on renewable energy projects, with Nigeria benefiting from Germany’s expertise in solar and wind energy.
Expected Outcomes
President Tinubu and President Steinmeier are expected to brief the press after their closed-door talks, which are likely to focus on strengthening bilateral relations, promoting economic cooperation, and addressing global challenges.
