The German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, has made a compelling appeal to the Federal Government to dispatch a substantive ambassador to Berlin, emphasizing that this strategic move would significantly enhance the bilateral relationship between both nations.
Strengthening Diplomatic Ties
Ambassador Günther delivered this crucial message during the celebration of the 35th anniversary of German National Day, also known as the Day of German Unity, held in Abuja. She stressed that having a Nigerian ambassador physically present in Germany would substantially boost partnership across multiple sectors including energy cooperation, climate initiatives, investment opportunities, mineral resources development, cultural exchange programs, and migration management.
The diplomatic landscape has faced challenges since September 2023, when Nigeria recalled heads of foreign missions worldwide. This decision has left numerous Nigerian diplomatic posts operating without substantive ambassadors or mission heads, a situation that international relations experts have criticized for its negative impact on the country's global image and operational effectiveness.
Broader International Concerns
Beyond bilateral matters, Ambassador Günther utilized the platform to advocate for global peace, the strengthening of democratic values, and the establishment of a rules-based international order. She drew attention to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, noting that while freedom, growth, and peace flourish in other European regions, Ukraine continues to suffer from Russian aggression that has resulted in civilian casualties and massive infrastructure destruction.
Reflecting on Germany's own historical challenges before reunification, the ambassador posed poignant questions about alternative realities: "For how much longer would we have been locked up behind the Iron Curtain? For how much longer would European countries have stayed under communist rule? How many children and youth of today would not have grown up in free societies?"
She also addressed the Middle East situation, welcoming the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas while cautioning that it remains "a glimpse of hope, very fragile." Nevertheless, she expressed optimism that this development could pave the way toward peaceful coexistence and alleviate suffering on both sides.
Celebrating Nigeria-Germany Partnership
The envoy described Nigeria as a strong partner not only in Africa but globally, particularly significant as both nations celebrate 65 years of diplomatic relations. She highlighted that this relationship has grown and intensified over decades due to their joint determination to advance mutual growth and prosperity.
"Our partnership thrives because of our joint conviction that multilateral cooperation is necessary to advance peace and security globally, and our joint commitment to upholding respect for international law," Günther stated.
She acknowledged recent high-level engagements, including German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier's visit to Nigeria in December 2024. The ambassador specifically praised Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar for his "tireless work" during his five-year tenure as Nigerian Ambassador to Germany and his continued contributions as Foreign Minister, noting that these efforts have "tremendously contributed to the advancement of our bilateral relations."
Günther further pledged Germany's continued cooperation and engagement with Nigeria, particularly in deepening security sector collaboration.
Cultural Bridges and Economic Ties
This year's celebration theme, "Bridging Continents, Celebrating UNESCO Heritage and Cultural Bonds between Germany and Nigeria," aimed to highlight both nations' unique histories and traditions while fostering cross-cultural appreciation and dialogue. The ambassador emphasized that cultural heritage serves as a bridge between continents, histories, and peoples, stressing the importance of valuing cultural traditions for shaping identity and unity.
Describing German National Day as symbolic of democracy's victory over tyranny and dictatorship, Günther shared her personal background of being born and raised behind the Iron Curtain in East Germany, which she described as "anything but democratic."
She issued a particularly relevant message to Nigeria's youth population, urging them to resist misinformation, fake news, and propaganda. "They have to experience themselves that they can grow and prosper only in a just and peaceful society. Let us hope they can be strong and wise enough not to fall for the growing threats to our democracies," she advised.
Substantial Economic Growth
The Federal Government, represented by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, acknowledged Germany as a beacon of innovation, resilience, and global cooperation. The bilateral relationship has witnessed remarkable growth, particularly in trade, with trade volume surging by 30% in 2025 alone, reaching an unprecedented €3 billion.
More than 90 German companies now operate in Nigeria, contributing significantly to job creation, technology transfer, and reinforcing Germany's position as Nigeria's second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa.
Beyond commercial ties, both countries have deepened cooperation through strategic agreements, including the recent renewal of a memorandum of understanding on defence cooperation, reinforcing their shared commitment to regional stability and global peace.
