The European Union (EU) has announced plans to focus on Northern Nigeria, youth empowerment, and migration as key areas of its bilateral partnership with the country.
This was disclosed by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, during a media luncheon in Abuja. Mignot explained that Northern Nigeria was chosen due to its significant development needs, challenges posed by non-state actors, and its potential for entrepreneurship and vibrant communities.
“Our focus on the North stems from the region’s significant needs and challenges. However, it also possesses strong potential for entrepreneurship and community development,” Mignot said.
He highlighted the EU’s integration of youth-focused opportunities, particularly in the digital and energy sectors, to support employment and development.
“We aim to provide vocational training for young people and create opportunities for startups, especially in the digital space. Women and people-to-people connections will also be central to our efforts. In the future, we hope to develop talent partnerships,” he added.
Migration Partnership
Mignot also emphasized the EU’s intent to collaborate with Nigeria on migration issues, including asylum, human trafficking, and illegal migration. He referenced recent EU legislation designed to protect migrants’ rights while ensuring that migration is well-regulated.
“While Europe needs migrants for its economy, it reserves the right to decide who enters and resides legally, not smugglers. We are committed to engaging with countries of origin and transit, like Nigeria, to address these issues through a win-win partnership,” he said.
The EU expressed readiness to work with Nigeria on combating human trafficking and ensuring that migration benefits both nations.
Trade and Economic Collaboration
The EU is also focused on strengthening trade ties with Nigeria, particularly in the green and digital economy. Ambassador Mignot noted the need for balanced trade, including the export of Nigerian agro-products to EU markets, which have often been rejected for not meeting required standards.
“We aim to diversify trade with Nigeria and support its agro-value chains to meet European standards, particularly in light of new deforestation regulations set to take effect in 2026. Cooperation with Nigeria’s cocoa value chain is an example of this effort,” Mignot said.
The EU’s goals include fostering sustainable economic growth in Nigeria while ensuring its products gain better access to European markets. Mignot concluded by reiterating the EU’s commitment to deepening its partnership with Nigeria across multiple sectors for mutual benefit.
