German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, talks to FRIDAY OLOKOR about diplomatic ties with Nigeria, visa issues, and the Israel-Hamas war, among others
What is the purpose of your visit to Nigeria?
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and biggest economy, and it is a key partner for us in Africa, politically and economically. This is my first visit to Nigeria and I am eager to discover the country and strengthen and deepen our partnership with regard to economic cooperation, investments, global issues, migration and security.
Considering the importance of Nigeria on the global scene, what is the total value of Germany’s investments in the country?
Nigeria is Germany’s second-largest trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa. We are delighted to see that this partnership is growing and trade expanding. German foreign direct investments to Nigeria totalled €150m in 2021.
In what areas will Germany invest more in Nigeria?
As the two biggest economies in Africa and Europe respectively, there is potential for much more cooperation and investment. This applies to a variety of sectors, ranging from infrastructure and energy to agriculture business, mineral resources, information and communication technologies, transport and logistics, and beyond.
Is it true that Germany wants to become a member of the United Nations Security Council?
Germany seeks a non-permanent, two-year seat on the UN Security Council every eight years. We are thus a candidate again for 2027/2028. We also support the long overdue reform of the UN Security Council, on which African states in particular need permanent membership and a stronger voice. Germany supports stronger African representation on the council as well as the African position on the UN Security Council reform.
Is Germany still dependent on Russia for its gas given the Russia-Ukraine war, which alternatives is Germany exploring?
Germany managed to gain independence from Russian gas within a few months last year by reducing the amount of gas used and diversifying supply, in particular by turning to liquid natural gas and the expansion of renewable energy sources.
Can Nigeria be a major gas supplier to Germany? In what ways?
Nigeria has the biggest gas supply in Africa. German companies are interested in gas deliveries from Nigeria and look forward to cooperation with Nigerian gas companies. In the future, hydrogen will play an important role and we welcome joint initiatives to ramp up the hydrogen market.
What is the volume of Nigerian gas needed by Germany?
Germany has a considerable demand for natural gas and, going forward, hydrogen to fuel its economy and energy transition. Concrete amounts should be agreed on in negotiations between Nigerian gas producers and German gas traders.
The Federal Government of Nigeria has consistently made efforts to repatriate some of its artefacts and bronze from Germany. Has it reached a level for Germany to return everything to Nigeria?
The return of the Benin bronzes has been agreed between the Government of Nigeria and the Government of Germany. It is not only a step to right our wrongs of the colonial past, but the starting point for a new relationship between Nigeria and Germany. This is an ongoing effort and we are happy about the cooperation already engaged in by the ministries of culture in the field of contemporary art, creative industries, and the museum sector.
Where does Germany belong in the ongoing crisis between Israel and Palestine?
The terrorist attacks against Israel, which started on October 7 and in which the terrorist organisation, Hamas, has murdered over 1,400 people, were abhorrent and barbaric. Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist attacks. It is also clear that all human lives have to be protected. Germany, therefore, continues its humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip and supports continuous humanitarian access. It is paramount that this conflict does not escalate further. Germany wants a political solution that allows both Israelis and Palestinians a life in peace and security.
Critics have raised concerns over the tough and cumbersome processes of getting visas to Germany. Nigerians who want to bring their spouses to join them in Germany don’t get them so easy as it takes many months. Are there plans to review the processes?
Yes, there are. It is one of our priorities to speed visa procedures up. We have developed a digital tool that allows for online visa applications and we are doing a lot to make the visa procedure as fast, predictable and user-friendly as possible. For work visas, waiting times are down to two to three weeks already! At the same time, we have to keep security aspects in mind and have to check every application separately. Sometimes applications are not complete or they may be incorrect, which may lead to delays in the process.
