A delegation of specialised German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) from the state of Rhineland-Palatinate has arrived in Lagos, signalling a new phase of economic cooperation between Germany and Nigeria.
The delegation, often referred to as “hidden champions” for their dominance in niche global markets, landed on February 24 and will remain in Lagos until February 27 for a series of business-to-business matchmaking sessions with Nigerian counterparts.
The visit, hosted by the German Consulate General in Lagos, kicked off with a networking reception bringing together the delegation and prospective Nigerian partners. The firms represent sectors including winemaking, construction, machinery production, and renewable energy.
Head of delegation, Dr. Joe Weingarten of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Transport, Agriculture, and Viniculture of Rhineland-Palatinate, described Nigeria as a market of strategic importance, citing its large population and growing economic potential.
“Nigeria ranks among the fourth strongest trading partners of Rhineland-Palatinate in Africa, after Egypt, Algeria, and South Africa,” Weingarten said. “This mission marks the first formal outreach by our state to Nigeria.”
In his remarks, Consul General Daniel Krull expressed optimism about the growing economic ties between Germany and Nigeria, highlighting the country’s dynamic market and resilient trade relations.
“This delegation comes at the right time,” Krull said, noting that the engagement follows a “bottom-up approach” aimed at fostering long-term partnerships.
Dr. Weingarten also highlighted Rhineland-Palatinate’s broad industrial base, including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, machinery, automobile manufacturing, winemaking, and leadership in renewable energy.
“About 60 per cent of our electricity in Rhineland-Palatinate comes from renewable sources,” he said, noting the potential for collaboration with Nigeria’s economy. On German renewable energy firms, he added: “Our expertise goes beyond generating wind or solar power; it’s about ensuring a reliable 24/7 energy supply.”
German officials stressed that Nigeria is now considered not just an export market, but a strategic partner for mutually beneficial trade and industrial cooperation.
Krull further announced that additional German business delegations will visit Nigeria in the first half of 2026, focusing on agro-food, ICT, solar energy storage, construction, and infrastructure.
“We want to help write the next chapter of German-Nigerian economic relations,” he said.