Abuja, Nigeria – President Bola Tinubu has called for a deeper partnership between Nigeria and the European Union (EU) based on the principles of democracy, rule of law, and freedom. Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from the EU, led by Ms Jutta Urpilainen, EU Commissioner in charge of International Partnerships, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of cross-sectoral cooperation.
Highlighting the recent signing of eight financing agreements between Nigeria and the EU under the “EU Global Gateway in Nigeria” initiative, President Tinubu welcomed the collaboration and stressed the need for enhanced economic cooperation in various sectors, including digital education, traditional energy, renewable energy, and broadband access.
President Tinubu expressed his commitment to the ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s economy, aimed at lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty. He also reiterated the significance of collective effort in achieving success, stating, “We need all of our partners’ hands on deck to sail together.”
In response, Commissioner Urpilainen commended Nigeria for its crucial role as a key partner of the EU, not only in politics and economics but also in shaping the social landscape across the African continent. She highlighted the EU’s efforts to establish an equal and mutually beneficial partnership with Africa, moving away from the traditional donor-recipient dynamic.
Referring to the “Global Gateway” investment program, agreed upon at the AU-EU Summit in Brussels, Commissioner Urpilainen emphasized its aim of attracting 300 billion Euros in investments, with 150 billion Euros allocated to Africa. She praised Nigeria’s contribution in supplying key energy products during the recent standoff with Russia and expressed the desire to expand the oil and gas partnership further.
Furthermore, Commissioner Urpilainen outlined the “Global Gateway” strategy, which seeks to expedite green and digital transformations in partner countries. Nigeria, as one of the most strategic destinations, shall benefit from investments in critical infrastructure, such as energy, transportation, and digital networks, as well as in human capital, education, and research.
The meeting was attended by esteemed members of the EU delegation, including Ms Samuela Isopi, Ambassador of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ms Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director of the Africa and European External Action Service (EEAS), Ms Lora Borissova, Africa Advisor, Cabinet of EU, and Ms Maria Pilar Palmero Vaquero, Head of Unit for Western Africa, Directorate-General International Partnerships (DG INTPA).
President Tinubu concluded the meeting by reiterating his commitment to strengthening partnerships and advancing Nigeria’s progress. As Nigeria and the EU continue their collaboration, this growing alliance holds great promise for both parties, contributing to mutual growth and development.
