Tinubu, German Chancellor Merz agree to boost security, power cooperation

Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu and Germany’s Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to deepen bilateral relations, focusing on cooperation in security, electricity, and railway development.

During a telephone conversation on Wednesday, the two leaders discussed ways to strengthen partnerships across key sectors, including creative arts and skills development. President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s need for support in improving power transmission under the Presidential Power Initiative.

Chancellor Merz indicated that German engineering giant Siemens is prepared to assist Nigeria in expanding its power infrastructure, while Deutsche Bank could help finance the project.

Both leaders also expressed concern about the deteriorating security situation in the Sahel region. Tinubu called for the provision of used helicopters to enhance intelligence gathering and reconnaissance operations across the corridor.

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

Nigeria and Germany have maintained diplomatic relations for about 65 years, with Merz noting that Berlin is anticipating the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany.

The German leader also stressed the importance of cultural collaboration, proposing the establishment of a Great Museum of African Arts to promote cultural exchange.