Tinubu, German Chancellor Merz Pledge Collaboration On Security, Power

President Bola Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have agreed to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance cooperation in security, power, and railway development.

Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, confirmed the details in a statement released on Wednesday.

In a telephone conversation on Wednesday, the leaders also discussed collaboration in creative arts and skill development, signaling a broader partnership beyond traditional sectors.

On Nigeria’s power needs, President Tinubu said, “We will require assistance with power transmission as part of our Presidential Power Initiative.”

Chancellor Merz responded, “Siemens is ready to assist, and Deutsche Bank is willing to finance the project.”

The two leaders also addressed security challenges in the Sahel region.

President Tinubu called for military support, saying, “The Sahel corridor is bad and needs our support. Intelligence support reconnaissance is needed.”

Diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Germany span 65 years. Chancellor Merz welcomed the strengthening ties, noting, “We are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Nigeria’s new ambassador to Germany.”

He also emphasised the importance of arts in building cultural bridges, advocating for the establishment of the Great Museum of African Arts.

The telephone conversation began at 2:01 pm and ended around 2:10 pm.