Nigeria is poised to capitalize on Germany’s €4 billion investment in green energy projects across Africa by 2030, according to Dr. Felix Ale, Director of Media and Corporate Communications at the National Space Research and Development Agency. The announcement followed the German Federal Foreign Office H2 Diplo Study Tour, where Nigeria’s Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, outlined the strategic importance of this partnership.
Chief Nnaji highlighted that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification, job creation, and sustainable development. He added that the collaboration stems from productive discussions between President Tinubu and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, resulting in a landmark €500 million renewable energy and gas deal.
“This engagement builds on the fruitful dialogue between our president and Chancellor Scholz,” Nnaji said, emphasizing the role of German ministries in driving the green hydrogen initiative. These ministries include the Federal Ministry of Research and Education and the Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, which are key to advancing renewable energy efforts.
Nnaji noted that green hydrogen, often called the “oil and gas of the future,” presents vast economic potential for Nigeria. Germany’s plan to import green hydrogen from Nigeria as part of its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045 underscores the significance of this partnership.
“This partnership not only supports President Tinubu’s goals of innovation and industrial growth but also positions Nigeria as a leader in the global green hydrogen market,” Nnaji added.
With a focus on adopting advanced technologies and fostering a conducive business environment, Nigeria aims to attract foreign direct investment, generate employment, and enhance its energy export capabilities. The potential for Nigeria to export green hydrogen to Europe further strengthens its leadership role in Africa’s green energy landscape, reinforcing its importance in Germany’s energy transition.
Nnaji concluded that the collaboration between Nigeria and Germany marks a significant step toward sustainable energy, creating opportunities for innovation and growth while addressing global energy challenges.