Tinubu requests support from Germany to enhance Nigeria’s security, power, railway sectors
President Bola Tinubu has sought Germany’s support in boosting security operations across the Sahel, requesting the supply of used helicopters to enhance intelligence and reconnaissance missions in the region.
Tinubu made the request during a 10-minute telephone conversation on Wednesday with Germany’s Chancellor, Friedrich Merz. The call focused on strengthening bilateral ties and deepening cooperation in security, power, and railway development.
According to a statement by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, both leaders expressed concern about worsening insecurity in the Sahel corridor. Tinubu stressed the need for improved intelligence-gathering capacity, noting that reconnaissance support is critical to stabilising the region. The statement did not indicate whether Germany agreed to provide the helicopters.
Beyond security, discussions also centred on Nigeria’s power sector reforms, particularly the Presidential Power Initiative aimed at improving electricity supply nationwide. Tinubu said the country requires further assistance, especially in upgrading power transmission infrastructure.
Merz reportedly assured the Nigerian leader that Siemens would continue to provide technical support, while Deutsche Bank signalled readiness to finance aspects of the project.
Nigeria and Germany are already tied to a $2.3 billion power agreement with Siemens, signed in 2019, to modernise and expand the national grid. However, implementation has faced repeated delays.
In December 2021, the Federal Executive Council approved $1.9 million and €62.9 million for the project’s first phase, which focuses on rehabilitating and upgrading transmission infrastructure.
Although Tinubu acknowledged some progress on the Siemens initiative last November, he noted that delivery has not met expectations.
