Nigeria, EU Plan Major 2026 Summit to Deepen Strategic Ties

N Nigeria and the European Union have agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, with plans to convene a major ministerial meeting in Abuja in March 2026, signalling renewed momentum for deeper political and economic cooperation.

The agreement was reached during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar Ahmed, and the European Union Ambassador to Nigeria, Gautier Mignot, according to a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimibie Ebienfa.

Both sides resolved to expand collaboration beyond the oil sector, focusing on key non-oil areas such as agriculture, the digital economy, and green innovation, in line with efforts to diversify Nigeria’s economy and promote sustainable growth.

“The proposed ministerial meeting in 2026 will serve as a platform to further deepen Nigeria–EU relations and advance cooperation in priority sectors of mutual interest,” the statement quoted Ambassador Ahmed as saying.

The European Union reaffirmed its commitment to continued cooperation on counter-terrorism, maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea, and addressing the root causes of instability, including youth unemployment, while Nigeria called for increased EU support for climate adaptation initiatives and improved access to green technologies.

Discussions also covered migration management, with both parties agreeing on a balanced approach anchored on skills partnerships, in alignment with the EU’s Global Gateway initiative aimed at mobilising investments in Nigerian infrastructure, clean energy, and youth-focused programmes.

Both Nigeria and the EU expressed confidence in the growing partnership, describing 2026 as a pivotal year for advancing mutual interests and long-term cooperation.