Germany and Nigerian public policy think tank, Nextier, have deepened discussions on their evolving partnership, focusing on economic growth, security, climate resilience, and investment opportunities.
The latest episode of Nextier’s Crossing Perspectives podcast featured a conversation between Nextier’s Managing Partner, Dr. Ndu Nwokolo, and the Deputy Head of Mission at the German Embassy in Nigeria, Ambassador Johannes Lehne.
Lehne highlighted Germany’s longstanding cooperation with Nigeria and praised the country’s improving economic conditions, crediting President Bola Tinubu’s reforms for stabilising inflation, foreign exchange reserves, and boosting oil production. He noted that these improvements are increasing German companies’ interest in investing in Nigeria.
Germany is shifting its approach to development aid in Nigeria from crisis management to fostering business and investment. Lehne emphasised Germany’s investment in Nigeria’s energy transition and infrastructure, citing projects such as the West African Power Program, which aims to integrate regional electricity networks.
On Nigeria’s critical minerals sector, he revealed that German companies are actively exploring opportunities, using satellite mapping and engaging state governments. However, he stressed that security and energy infrastructure improvements are necessary to attract sustainable foreign investments.
Addressing challenges in ECOWAS, particularly the withdrawal of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, Lehne compared the situation to Brexit, asserting that ECOWAS must decide whether to tolerate military rule or uphold democratic principles.
“Countries cannot cherry-pick benefits without sharing responsibilities,” he stated.
With Germany’s upcoming government transition, Lehne predicted increased defence investments in response to global security concerns. He also highlighted Germany’s commitment to bolstering Nigeria’s defence sector through a $2 million military support programme for 2025–2026, alongside continued counterterrorism support for ECOWAS.
Germany has already established a military cooperation programme with the Nigerian Armed Forces and is expected to expand its assistance. Lehne also pointed out Germany’s contributions to ECOWAS’ counterterrorism efforts, including mobile headquarters, hospitals, and logistics infrastructure.
On concerns over potential budget cuts for climate resilience, food security, and gender-related initiatives, Lehne reassured that funding remains intact.
“The Green Party in Germany secured €100 billion for climate, resilience, and gender programs. As the United States reduces its aid footprint, Germany will step in to fill the gap,” he said.
Germany will maintain its development cooperation with Nigeria through GIZ, focusing on energy, agriculture, and job creation, including the expansion of the African Power Program for regional electricity integration.
On migration, Lehne acknowledged the desperation driving young Nigerians to seek illegal routes abroad but warned against the dangers of human trafficking networks.
“Don’t do it. It’s highly dangerous. Criminals exploit migrants, and the journey is filled with risks,” he cautioned.
Instead, he revealed that Germany is working on a legal migration agreement with Nigeria to create structured opportunities for skilled workers.
