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ABUJA,Nigeria (NAN) - The European Union has committed 300 million euros for new initiatives in Nigeria's North-West and North-East regions.
The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, announced this at the 2025 annual Europe Day celebration in Abuja.
Mignot expressed that both the EU and Nigeria aspire to create a better, rule-based, prosperous, sustainable, and equitable world that meets the needs of the 21st century.
He emphasized that achieving this vision requires collaboration, highlighting their significant roles in Africa and globally.
Since his arrival last September, Mr. Mignot has observed tangible advancements in their partnership through the implementation of the EU Global Gateway strategy aimed at creating more opportunities, especially for women and youth, through the 300 million euros allocated for new projects in these regions this year.
He also acknowledged the mutual desire to strengthen their relationship, particularly in trade and investment, noting the EU's position as Nigeria's primary partner.
He expressed that in today's rapidly changing environment, the EU sees Nigeria as a stable and dependable ally, just as Nigeria sees the EU.
In discussing partnerships further, the ambassador mentioned that the EU is cultivating similar relationships with ECOWAS and seeking to align with Africa as a whole, with foreign ministers from the EU set to convene in Brussels to prepare for the upcoming EU-AU summit.
“The summit is planned for later this year and will also commemorate our 25-year partnership, which is unparalleled in every aspect,” said Mignot.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, praised the EU for its additional allocation of 300 million euros aimed at new projects in the two regions.
He noted that the shared partnership and values between Nigeria and the EU are instrumental in addressing unrest through empowerment initiatives for Nigerian youth.
Bagudu stated, “Today marks not just an affirmation of values that extend beyond borders, including peace, solidarity, mutual respect, and commitment to sustainable development. These are principles that the EU upholds and which Nigeria, as the largest economy and democracy, also embraces. Over the last 60 years, the relationship between the EU and Nigeria has deepened in various areas, including trade, investment, governance, public health, education, digital economy, and climate action.
“The EU’s involvement in the Niger Delta and North-East in promoting peace-building efforts, restoring livelihoods, and youth empowerment programs has contributed to reducing unrest and overcoming educational challenges.
In recent years, the EU has continued to be a strategic partner in supporting our national developmental goals, including the national development plan for 2021-2025 and the new Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.”
