Tinubu, German Chancellor Merz Agree to Deepen Ties in Power, Security and Rail Sectors

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have resolved to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany, with renewed commitments to collaboration in the security, power and railway sectors.

The agreement was reached during a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Wednesday afternoon, where they also expressed readiness to cooperate in the areas of creative arts and skills development.

According to a statement issued Wednesday night by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, discussions focused significantly on Nigeria’s Presidential Power Initiative. President Tinubu noted that Nigeria would require further assistance, particularly in power transmission, to advance the programme’s objectives.

In response, Chancellor Merz pledged that Siemens would be prepared to provide technical support, while Deutsche Bank would be willing to finance aspects of the project.

The two leaders also expressed concern over the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region. President Tinubu emphasised the need for enhanced intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities, calling for the provision of used helicopters to bolster regional security efforts.

“The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed,” the President was quoted as saying.

Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for approximately 65 years. Chancellor Merz noted that Germany is looking forward to the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Berlin, signalling continued diplomatic engagement between both nations.

The German leader further underscored the importance of cultural cooperation, advocating for the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts to promote heritage and artistic exchange.

The telephone conversation commenced at 2:01 p.m. and concluded at about 2:10 p.m. on Wednesday.