Tinubu, German leader strike major deal on power, security

President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany, with plans to collaborate in security, electricity and railway development.

The agreement was reached during a telephone conversation between the two leaders on Wednesday, according to a State House press statement issued by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

During the discussion, both leaders expressed willingness to deepen cooperation in areas including power transmission, creative arts and skills development.

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s need for support under the Presidential Power Initiative, particularly in improving power transmission infrastructure. In response, Merz indicated that German engineering giant Siemens would be ready to assist, while Deutsche Bank could provide financing for the project.

The leaders also discussed the security challenges in the Sahel region. Tinubu emphasised the need for enhanced intelligence gathering and called for the supply of used helicopters to aid reconnaissance operations.

“The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed,” the President said.

Both countries further reiterated their commitment to maintaining long-standing diplomatic relations, which have lasted about 65 years. The German Chancellor also noted that Germany is expecting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador.

Merz additionally emphasised cooperation in culture and the arts, proposing the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts.

The telephone conversation between the two leaders lasted approximately nine minutes, beginning at 2:01 pm and ending around 2:10 pm on Wednesday.