Nigeria and the European Union (EU) have officially signed a €900 million financial package aimed at propelling Nigeria’s green, resilient, and digital inclusive transition.
This landmark agreement aligns with the strategic priorities of both parties and exemplifies the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, which seeks to foster sustainable and trustworthy connections with partner countries.
The financial package, developed collaboratively between Nigeria and the EU, is designed to launch innovative programs through the Global Gateway initiative.
Among the key allocations are €29 million for climate-smart agriculture, €37 million for sustainable energy, €45 million for enhancing access to healthcare services, and €5.4 million for supporting youth and education development in Nigeria’s North West region.
The latter allocation is expected to contribute significantly to the improvement of the teaching profession and the capacity-building of educators in the area.
This agreement was formally inked at the EU-Nigeria Strategic Dialogue in Abuja, signifying another milestone in the enduring partnership between the EU and Nigeria.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, emphasized the significance of this dialogue, asserting that it offers an opportunity for the articulation and consolidation of priorities to benefit both parties.
In addition to the allocations mentioned above, €46 million will be dedicated to expanding access to Nigeria’s social protection safety net, while €28.4 million will be used to support border management and the reintegration of returnees.
€20 million will be directed towards the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of former Boko Haram combatants in the North-east region, and €30 million will contribute to improving the criminal justice system, enhancing access to justice, and intensifying the fight against corruption.
This historic agreement signifies a strong commitment to the principles of sustainable development, green initiatives, and mutual growth, ensuring a brighter future for Nigeria and fostering deeper cooperation between Nigeria and the EU.
