EU Backs Nigeria’s Economic Reforms, Pledges Support for Sustainable Development
The European Union (EU) has pledged support for Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms during a courtesy visit by its representative, Mr. David McAllister, to the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning in Abuja on Friday.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, received a delegation from the European Parliament led by Mr. McAllister, alongside Mr. Gautier Mignot, the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, at the ministry’s headquarters.
In a statement signed and posted on X by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga on Friday, the visit was described as a demonstration of deepening collaboration between the EU and Nigeria.
“The high-level visit underscored the deepening partnership between Nigeria and the European Union and reaffirmed the mutual commitment to advancing cooperation in trade, investment, democratic governance, and sustainable development under the EU’s Global Gateway Investment Strategy,” the statement read.
Speaking on behalf of the EU, Ambassador Gautier Mignot described the visit as an important milestone in EU–Nigeria relations, emphasizing the EU’s role in shaping policy, adopting budgets, and monitoring parliamentary activities worldwide. He also acknowledged Nigeria’s role as a potential hub for sustainable development in West Africa while pledging continued support for the country’s development agenda.
In his welcome remarks, the ministry’s Acting Permanent Secretary described the visit as a reaffirmation of shared values and long-standing friendship.
Mr. McAllister, the leader of the visiting delegation, commended Nigeria’s leadership and reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to strengthening relations.
“We are here to underline one clear message Nigeria matters. The European Union is one of Nigeria’s largest trade and investment partners, and our goal is to elevate this relationship to the next level” McAllister said.
He added that the EU–Nigeria Trade and Investment Dialogue launched earlier this year was a landmark step towards promoting clean energy, strengthening manufacturing capacity, and supporting sustainable economic diversification.
“We look forward to taking back to Brussels a strong message that our partnership with Nigeria must grow deeper and broader,” he added. “This is a relationship built not only on trade but on shared democratic values and mutual prosperity.”
Addressing the delegation, Minister Bagudu expressed gratitude for the visit and commended the EU’s consistent collaboration with Nigeria amid global multilateral challenges.
“This visit comes at a time when multilateralism is being challenged around the world. It is therefore reassuring that the European Union continues to stand as a beacon of partnership and shared values,” he said.
The Minister further highlighted the ongoing reforms and sustainable development drive under President Tinubu’s administration.
“Our President has set a clear target for Nigeria to achieve a one trillion-dollar GDP by 2030,” he noted. “To realize this, about 86 percent of the required investment will come from the private sector. This is ambitious but achievable through partnerships such as ours with the European Union.”
He also emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to ratifying the Samoa Agreement, which serves as a foundation for enhanced cooperation under the Global Gateway framework.
“Nigeria is committed to rule-based governance and democratic values. We believe in partnerships that empower both sides. We do not seek aid; we seek collaboration. Our goal is to create opportunities that benefit Nigerians and our partners alike” Senator Bagudu stated.
The Minister concluded by describing the EU as a vital partner in promoting climate-smart investments, inclusive economic diversification, and lawful migration.
