The Chancellor of the Federal Republic of Germany, Olaf Scholz, is set to embark on a significant visit to Nigeria on the 29th and 30th of October 2023. This visit, as stated by the Embassy of Germany in Nigeria, is aimed at fortifying the bilateral relations between Germany and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
This momentous occasion marks the first visit of a head of government to Nigeria since the inauguration of the new government. With diplomatic relations spanning over six decades, Germany and Nigeria have fostered a warm and longstanding relationship. Moreover, as the strongest economy and the most populous country on their respective continents, they are recognized as natural partners.
The statement from the embassy reads, “This visit intends to accentuate Germany’s appreciation for the strong partnership over the years and underline the importance the German government places on Nigeria’s role in the region and globally.”
During his visit, Chancellor Scholz will hold meetings with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as well as with the President of the ECOWAS Commission, Dr. Omar Alieu Touray, in Abuja. Subsequently, he will travel to Lagos, where he will inaugurate the Nigeria-German Business Conference organized by the Nigerian-German Chamber of Commerce.
While in Lagos, Chancellor Scholz will engage with representatives of Nigerian civil society, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse fabric of the nation. Additionally, he will interact with Nigerian start-up entrepreneurs, recognizing their vital contributions to the country’s dynamic business landscape. As part of his schedule, Chancellor Scholz will embark on a tour of Lagos, an iconic megacity that embodies both the challenges and opportunities of urbanization.
The embassy further revealed that Chancellor Scholz will be accompanied by a delegation comprising high-ranking German business leaders, including CEOs of some of Germany’s most valuable companies. This indicates the visit’s focus on enhancing economic ties and exploring investment prospects in Nigeria.
This forthcoming visit by Chancellor Olaf Scholz is poised to not only strengthen bilateral relations but also provide a platform for fruitful discussions and collaborations between Germany and Nigeria. It underscores the significance that Germany places on Nigeria’s influential role within the region and the global stage.