That is a significant update for the Nigeria-EU partnership. While the meeting did took place in Lagos yesterday (Monday, March 23) the financial scope of the new deal is to consolidate the 8th Nigeria-EU Ministerial Dialogue in Abuja, co-chaired by Kallas and Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar, before she traveled to Lagos to meet the President.
​During her first official visit to Nigeria, EU High Representative Kaja Kallas met with President Bola Tinubu at his Lagos residence to unveil a €290 million investment package. This funding is part of the EU’s “Global Gateway” strategy and is intended to align with Nigeria’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
​The package focuses on four primary sectors to boost Nigeria’s infrastructure and economy.
€131 million which is The largest portion is dedicated to digital connectivity, including the rollout of 90,000 km of fiber optic cable. This aims to provide internet access to an additional 33 million Nigerians.
Funding to improve access to finance for local companies in the cocoa and dairy value chains, promoting climate-smart agricultural practices. There is also funding to combat human trafficking and reintegrate victims with their families.
​Beyond the immediate funding, the meeting highlighted several long-term goals. Both parties explored cooperation on Nigeria’s mineral deposits (like lithium and cobalt), which are vital for the EU’s green energy transition.
Kallas described Nigeria as a “bulwark” against terrorism in West Africa and reaffirmed the EU’s support for counter-terrorism and regional stability.
An agreement was initiated to ensure the “safe and dignified” return of Nigerians who no longer have the right to stay in the EU.
