🇳🇬NigeriaWest Africa
Nigeria and EU deepen economic partnership to boost investments and trade
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
The Federal Government of Nigeria and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their strategic economic partnership to attract investments, expand trade, and accelerate sustainable economic growth. This commitment was highlighted at the 10th Nigeria–EU Business Forum in Abuja, marking a significant step since their relationship was elevated to a strengthened Strategic Partnership in March 2026. The EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, noted that the EU accounts for 31% of Nigeria’s foreign trade and is its largest source of foreign direct investment. Princess Zahra Mustapha Audu, Director-General of the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council, speaking on behalf of Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the relationship as a "strategic economic alliance" supporting over €35 billion in annual trade, approximately €26 billion in European foreign direct investment, and more than 130,000 direct jobs in Nigeria. The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, emphasized Nigeria's ongoing economic reforms, fiscal discipline, and coordinated implementation as drivers for economic transformation and a more competitive investment climate. The forum, themed "Enhancing Sustainable Investment Together," brought together policymakers, investors, and business leaders to foster cooperation in sectors like renewable energy, digital inf
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Six Nigerian citizens, detained in Côte d’Ivoire since October 2025 on allegations of economic crimes, have been released following sustained diplomatic and consular efforts by the Nigerian government. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that four individuals were freed on Monday, June 22, 2026, and the remaining two on Tuesday, June 23, 2026. The Nigerian Embassy in Abidjan engaged with Ivorian authorities, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Justice, to secure their release. The Ministry commended Ambassador Nwabiola Ezenwa and the embassy staff for their professionalism and tireless efforts, and also thanked the Government of Côte d’Ivoire for its cooperation, attributing the positive outcome to the cordial relations between the two countries. The Federal Government of Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to protecting Nigerians abroad and urged citizens overseas to adhere to host country laws and maintain contact with diplomatic missions for assistance.
Must ReadNigerian sprint athlete Samuel Ogazi has announced his decision to turn professional, concluding his collegiate career at the University of Alabama. Ogazi, 20, is recognized as one of the greatest 400m runners in NCAA history and is the fourth-fastest man ever in the event. He chose to forgo his remaining NCAA eligibility after three seasons in the United States. His final collegiate season included winning the NCAA Outdoor Championship with a time of 43.38 seconds, breaking the NCAA record and placing him fourth on the all-time global list. Earlier, he secured the NCAA Indoor 400m title with an African indoor record of 44.57 seconds, making him the fourth-fastest indoor performer at the time. He also won the SEC indoor and outdoor 400m titles in 2026 and defended his NCAA outdoor crown from 2025, having also earned a silver medal in 2024. Throughout his collegiate career, Ogazi progressively lowered the Nigerian 400m record from 44.02 seconds to 43.38 seconds. He also set multiple University of Alabama records and departs as the fastest 400m runner in NCAA history. Athletics Station, a Nigerian track and field stakeholder, described this decision as a defining moment for Ogazi and the sport in Nigeria, expressing confidence that he will become a global force and medal contender with professional guidance. They urged the athletics community, sponsors, and fans to support him in this new chapter.
Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal has expressed doubts about the Nigeria Football Federation's capacity to consistently pay the $100,000 monthly salary agreed upon with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle. This concern follows the extension of Chelle's contract until 2030, which includes a significant salary increase from his initial $50,000 per month, which covered his assistants' wages. The NFF will now separately manage the contracts of his backroom staff. Chelle has also been given oversight of the U-23 team for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers. While Lawal acknowledged the merits of Chelle's appointment, he specifically voiced apprehension regarding the financial commitment. Former Eagles boss Finidi George also warned that assigning Chelle dual responsibilities for both the senior team and the Olympic side could be counterproductive, suggesting a division of labor.