By Deborah Nnamdi
The Federal Government of Nigeria is strengthening its ties with Germany to promote foreign direct investment and stimulate economic growth.
The Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, disclosed this on Tuesday while welcoming a delegation from the IHK Giessen-Friedberg Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Germany.
The delegation’s visit aims to enhance Nigeria’s economic relations with Germany and explore opportunities for investment and job creation, particularly in vocational training, skilled migration, and business development.
Addressing the delegation, Oduwole emphasized the alignment between the German initiatives and the ministry’s priorities.
“It is a pleasure to welcome you and to hear what you have in store. One of our priority programs, 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,” she said.
The event also highlighted Nigeria’s growing potential as a key player in international trade, leveraging its young, skilled workforce to meet the increasing demand for labor in Germany. This includes structured migration pathways that benefit both economies.
Oduwole expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We are always open to opportunities for Nigerian youth,” and extended her support for the forthcoming The World Meets in Giessen conference in Germany.
The German delegation was led by the President of the Giessen Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Matthias Leder.
In his address, Leder emphasized the mutual benefits of their continued cooperation, focusing on two key areas: investment opportunities and skilled labor migration.
He invited Nigeria to participate in the upcoming World Meets in Giessen conference, which aims to connect businesses from around the world in a B2B format.
“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 honorable ministers, ambassadors, and consul generals, as these excellencies serve as the perfect door openers to enter a foreign market,” he said.
Leder also discussed the success of the dual vocational training system implemented in Nigeria, which has significantly reduced youth unemployment.
“We have already implemented this in Nigeria, in Abuja, Abeokuta, and Lagos, and it was successful. More than 95 percent of the apprentices in these three locations received job offers,” he shared.
“We are convinced that this is a key factor for Nigeria’s development and growth,” he added.
The partnership between Nigeria and Germany is set to create long-term economic opportunities, focusing on workforce development, improved labor mobility, and increased investment.
This collaboration is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s economy, generate employment for its youthful population, and attract international businesses eager to tap into the country’s growing market.
