Germany’s Foreign Minister, Johann Wadephul, has described Nigeria as one of Europe’s most important jet fuel suppliers, highlighting the country’s growing role in Europe’s energy security while reaffirming Germany’s commitment to expanding bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, security and renewable energy.
Wadephul made the remarks on Tuesday at a networking reception hosted by the German Embassy in Lagos during his official visit to Nigeria. The event, attended by senior government officials, business leaders and members of a German business delegation, was aimed at strengthening political and economic ties between both countries.
Speaking on the growing energy partnership between Germany and Nigeria, the minister said recent developments have demonstrated Nigeria’s strategic importance to Europe.
“In the first half of 2026, Nigeria has become one of the most important jet fuel suppliers for Europe,” he said.
“Only in June, Nigeria covered 25 of Europe’s jet fuel supplies. This is a vivid testimony of the importance of our partnership bilaterally and on global world trade.”
Wadephul said Germany was committed to building on its long-standing partnership with Nigeria, describing the country as one of Germany’s most important partners on the African continent.
“We want to work together, Germany and Nigeria, Europe and Africa, striving for security, freedom and prosperity for our nations,” he said.
According to him, trade and investment remain key pillars of the relationship, noting that he visited Lagos with a delegation of German companies to deepen economic cooperation.
“German industry stands ready to support Nigeria in reducing its carbon footprint by unlocking this enormous potential using gas and oil,” he said, adding that both countries have expanded their bilateral energy partnership to include climate dialogue and renewable energy.
The minister also commended Nigeria’s contributions to regional security, particularly in the Gulf of Guinea and the Lake Chad Basin, where he said Germany has provided instructors, equipment and 120 million dollars in support.
He noted that cooperation between both countries extends beyond security and energy to education, research and cultural exchange, disclosing that there are now more than 50 university partnerships between Germany and Nigeria and that the number of Nigerian students in Germany has quadrupled over the past decade.
Highlighting Nigeria’s growing technology sector, Wadephul said the country’s youthful IT talent presents opportunities for deeper collaboration between both countries.
“I believe there is a tremendous potential for expanding our partnership when Europe’s largest economy and Africa’s most populous nation and economic powerhouse come together. Good things can happen, provided we stand together and work together,” he said.
The reception concluded with a networking session between the German delegation, Nigerian government officials, investors and business executives, as both countries explored opportunities to expand cooperation in energy, infrastructure, technology, education and trade.
Ademide Adebayo
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