The European Union is seeking to deepen its relationship with Nigeria, with European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, meeting key government officials during a visit to Abuja.
Brunner held discussions with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN); the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Bernard Doro.
The visit comes as both sides work to strengthen cooperation on migration, security, trade and regional development. According to a statement from the EU Mission in Abuja, their longstanding migration partnership has gained fresh momentum following the signing of the EU-Nigeria Readmission Agreement.
The agreement has also supported closer cooperation between Nigeria and European agencies, including Europol, Eurojust and Frontex, with both sides recording progress in managing migration-related challenges.
As part of its continued support, the EU has allocated €66 million for new migration-related projects. It has also committed €26 million to security initiatives targeting challenges such as the spread of small arms and drug trafficking.
In addition, the EU has adopted its first bilateral assistance measure for Nigeria under the European Peace Facility, providing €20 million to support the country’s counterterrorism efforts.
The European Union described Nigeria as a key partner in Africa, pointing to its strategic position in West Africa and its influence across the wider region. Both sides also share an interest in strengthening multilateral cooperation and upholding a rules-based international order.
Brunner’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity to assess progress made so far, identify areas where cooperation can be improved and expand discussions beyond migration and security.
Speaking during the visit, Brunner said relations between Nigeria and Europe were growing stronger, with both sides working to turn diplomatic discussions into practical results.
“Nigeria is a key partner for Europe, and our ties are steadily growing stronger. Together we are turning dialogue into action: more security, better migration management, joining forces to bring results. We are turning the huge potential of our partnership into mutual benefit,” he said.
