Akpabio seeks stronger Nigeria-Germany partnership

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has urged Nigeria and Germany to deepen their economic ties, proposing a structured parliamentary dialogue to translate their long-standing friendship into tangible benefits. Speaking in Abuja, Akpabio highlighted priorities such as expanding industrial production, strengthening key sectors like manufacturing and agro-processing, and creating productive employment opportunities.

He emphasized the need to address investment barriers, including high financing costs and regulatory obstacles, and called for increased German investment in sectors like electricity, renewable energy, and infrastructure. Akpabio also stressed the importance of technical education and skills development, proposing stronger collaboration between Nigerian institutions and German technical colleges, industries, and employers.

Additionally, he advocated for expanded safe migration pathways, recognition of professional qualifications, and stronger anti-human trafficking measures. Akpabio proposed five priorities for the visit: sustained parliamentary dialogue, faster cooperation in electricity and renewable energy, a skills and innovation partnership, improved access to investment and development finance, and designated parliamentary contacts for monitoring implementation.