By: Ime Rechie | Edited by: Henry Owen | Stone Reporter News
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic and development cooperation with the European Union (EU), describing the bloc as a “critical partner” in the nation’s pursuit of sustainable growth and good governance.
Senator Bagudu made the remarks while receiving a delegation of the European Parliamentary Committee on Foreign Affairs, led by Mr. David McAllister, alongside the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Ambassador Gautier Mignot, during a courtesy visit to the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja.
The high-level meeting underscored the mutual commitment of Nigeria and the EU to strengthen collaboration in areas such as trade, investment, democratic governance, and sustainable development — particularly under the EU’s Global Gateway Investment Strategy.
In his welcome remarks, the Acting Permanent Secretary of the Ministry commended the visit as a reaffirmation of long-standing friendship and shared democratic values.
Speaking on behalf of the European Union, Ambassador Gautier Mignot emphasized the visit’s importance in advancing EU–Nigeria relations, noting the European Parliament’s role in shaping foreign policy, supervising development initiatives, and promoting global cooperation.
“We are here to underline one clear message — Nigeria matters,” said Mr. David McAllister, the leader of the delegation. “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 further referenced the EU–Nigeria Trade and Investment Dialogue, launched earlier in the year, as a landmark effort to promote clean energy, manufacturing, and economic diversification, adding that the EU aims to return to Brussels with a “strong message that our partnership with Nigeria must grow deeper and broader.”
Responding, Senator Bagudu expressed gratitude for the EU’s continued partnership, noting that the visit came at a critical time when global multilateral cooperation is being tested.
“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,” the Minister said.
He outlined ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing fiscal consolidation, private-sector-led growth, and sustainable development.
“Our President has set a clear target for Nigeria to achieve a one trillion-dollar GDP by 2030,” Bagudu stated. “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.”
Bagudu also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ratification of the Samoa Agreement, which he described as a foundation for enhanced cooperation under the Global Gateway framework.
“Nigeria is committed to rule-based governance and democratic values. We do not seek aid; we seek collaboration,” the Minister added. “Our goal is to create opportunities that benefit Nigerians and our partners alike.”
The Minister concluded by highlighting ongoing government efforts to promote lawful migration, climate-smart investments, and inclusive economic growth, assuring that Nigeria remains a reliable partner for regional stability and prosperity.
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