By Muhammad Mamman
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have held high-level telephone talks, pledging deeper cooperation in power transmission, Sahel security, railway development and the creative arts as both countries mark 65 years of diplomatic relations.
According to a statement issued after the call, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, with a particular focus on infrastructure modernisation and regional stability.
On energy, President Tinubu underscored Nigeria’s determination to reform and expand its electricity transmission network to improve reliability and drive industrial growth. Chancellor Merz, in response, expressed Germany’s readiness to support Nigeria’s power sector reforms through technical expertise and investment partnerships aimed at boosting capacity and efficiency.
Security cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions. Both leaders acknowledged the persistent instability in the Sahel region and emphasised the need for coordinated international efforts to counter terrorism, organised crime and cross-border threats. They agreed to enhance intelligence sharing and strategic collaboration to promote peace and stability across West Africa.
In the area of transportation, the leaders explored opportunities for German participation in Nigeria’s railway modernisation projects. President Tinubu highlighted ongoing efforts to expand the country’s rail infrastructure as a catalyst for economic integration and trade, inviting stronger engagement from German engineering and manufacturing firms.
Beyond security and infrastructure, the talks extended to cultural diplomacy and the creative industries. Both sides recognised the growing global influence of Nigeria’s creative sector and discussed avenues for collaboration in film, music, arts and cultural exchange programmes, aimed at fostering mutual understanding and economic opportunity.
The telephone conversation forms part of commemorative engagements marking 65 years of diplomatic relations between Nigeria and Germany. Observers say the renewed commitment to strategic partnership signals a shared ambition to deepen cooperation in key sectors critical to sustainable development and regional stability.
