The Federal Government of Nigeria is strengthening its economic ties with Germany to attract foreign direct investment and foster economic growth.
This was disclosed by the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, on Tuesday while receiving a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Germany.
The visit was aimed at deepening economic cooperation between the two countries and exploring investment opportunities in areas such as vocational training, skilled migration, and business development.
Oduwole highlighted the alignment between Germany’s initiatives and the ministry’s economic priorities. She stated, “It is a pleasure to welcome you and to hear what you have in store. One of our priority programmes, which you mentioned—the National Talent Export Programme—we are repositioning to scale up Nigerian youth in terms of services, vocational training, and managed skills migration.”
The discussions underscored Nigeria’s potential as a growing hub for international trade, leveraging its youthful and skilled workforce to meet the rising demand for labour in Germany.
The collaboration is expected to establish structured migration pathways that benefit both nations.
Expressing optimism about the partnership, Oduwole reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering Nigerian youth.
“We are always open to opportunities for Nigerian youth,” she added, while pledging support for Nigeria’s participation in the upcoming *The World Meets in Giessen* conference in Germany.
Leading the German delegation was Matthias Leder, President of the Giessen Chamber of Commerce and Industry, who highlighted the mutual benefits of continued collaboration, particularly in investment and skilled labour migration.
“We offer a B2B conference where companies from all over the world can come to Giessen to network and pitch. To support these companies, we also invite honourable ministers, ambassadors, and consul generals, as these excellencies serve as the perfect door openers to enter a foreign market,” Leder said.
He also praised the success of the dual vocational training system in Nigeria, noting its impact on youth employment.
“We have already implemented this in Nigeria, in Abuja, Abeokuta, and Lagos, and it was successful. More than 95 per cent of the apprentices in these three locations received job offers,” he revealed.
“We are convinced that this is a key factor for Nigeria’s development and growth,” Leder added.
The strengthened partnership between Nigeria and Germany is expected to drive long-term economic progress by enhancing workforce development, facilitating labour mobility, and attracting greater investment.
Lai Mohammed, Managing Partner of Bruit Costaud, also emphasised the significance of the collaboration, stating, “We deeply appreciate your time and engagement, and we believe this collaboration will yield meaningful outcomes that will further strengthen the economic and trade relationship between Nigeria and Germany.”
