8TH Nigeria – European Union Ministerial Dialogue Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and deepening cooperation across critical sectors following the successful convening of the 8th Nigeria–EU Ministerial Dialogue held on Monday, 23 March 2026 at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, OON, led the Nigerian delegation, while the EU delegation was led by Her Excellency Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs & Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission. The Dialogue brought together senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and representatives of relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) from both sides. It provided a high-level platform to review Nigeria–EU relations and chart pathways for enhanced cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
In his opening remarks, the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs underscored the enduring and strategic nature of Nigeria–EU relations, anchored on mutual respect, shared values, and commitment to multilateralism. He emphasized that the Dialogue, held under the theme “Partnership for Sustainable Development
and Security”, reflects a shared determination to deliver tangible outcomes that positively impact citizens.
The European Union High Representative in her remarks reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to Nigeria as a key strategic partner in Africa and highlighted ongoing cooperation in peace and security, trade and investment, digital transformation, climate action, and migration management.
Discussions on peace and security during the meeting focused on counterterrorism efforts, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, and regional stability in the Sahel. Nigeria commended the EU’s continued support, including assistance to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), and welcomed the institutionalisation of the EU–Nigeria Peace, Security and Defence Dialogue.
Both sides also acknowledged the growing security challenges in West Africa and reiterated the importance of coordinated regional and international responses, including support for ECOWAS.
On economic cooperation, both parties reaffirmed the EU’s position as Nigeria’s major trading and investment partner, with over 200 European companies operating in the country. They agreed to expand collaboration beyond hydrocarbons into agriculture, manufacturing, digital economy, and industrial innovation. The EU further outlined ongoing investments under its Global Gateway initiative, covering digital infrastructure, healthcare, agriculture, and energy.
In the area of energy and climate change, discussions emphasized the need for a balanced transition to renewable energy. Nigeria reiterated its commitment to global climate obligations while raising concerns about the potential impact of the EU Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism on developing economies. Both sides agreed to sustain dialogue on climate financing, technology transfer, and equitable transition frameworks.
The Dialogue also highlighted Nigeria’s growing position as a digital innovation hub and called for deeper cooperation in research, digital payments, startup financing, and participation in EU programmes such as Horizon Europe.
On migration, both parties acknowledged the need for balanced, humane, and forward-looking approaches. Progress was recorded on the Nigeria–EU Readmission Agreement, which was initialled during the Dialogue. Discussions also covered legal migration pathways, labour mobility, and joint efforts to combat human trafficking and irregular migration.
Humanitarian cooperation was also discussed, with Nigeria appreciating EU support for internally displaced persons (IDPs) and ongoing efforts to provide durable solutions for affected populations. Both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration in humanitarian response and resilience-building.
At the conclusion of the Dialogue, both parties reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing cooperation across priority sectors, including peace and security, trade and investment, governance, migration, and sustainable development.
The Eighth Nigeria–EU Ministerial Dialogue marks another significant milestone in the evolving partnership between Nigeria and the European Union, with both sides expressing readiness to translate commitments into concrete actions that will promote stability, prosperity, and sustainable development.
Signed:
Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, anipr
Spokesperson
Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja
Monday, 23 March 2026
