By Ebi Kesiena
Gautier Mignot, the European Union (EU) Ambassador to Nigeria, has reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to strengthening existing partnerships and forging new ones with the Nigerian government.
During a media parley on Monday in Abuja, Mr. Mignot, who recently assumed his role as EU Ambassador to Nigeria, shared his vision for enhancing EU-Nigeria collaborations. He described Nigeria as a pivotal player in Africa and the global arena and emphasized the EU’s dedication to being a reliable partner for the nation.
According to him, his priorities include fostering structured economic relations and promoting trade and investment. The EU also plans to focus on critical sectors such as the green economy, digital technology, agri-food, and healthcare.
Mr. Mignot highlighted plans to address specific needs in Northern Nigeria, enhance peace and security collaboration, and create opportunities in education and research. Additionally, the EU aims to tackle migration challenges, including human trafficking, migrant reintegration, and establishing legal migration pathways that align with the interests of both parties.
“There will be consultations on global and regional issues, as the EU is already a major supporter of ECOWAS on a wide range of issues,” he noted.
He further emphasized the importance of close collaboration with Nigerian authorities at both federal and local levels, adding, “We want to listen to their expectations, strategies, and needs.”
Mr. Mignot identified two key aspects of the EU’s mission in Nigeria.
“Firstly, we aim to give more visibility to what the EU has already achieved in and with Nigeria. Secondly, we are endorsing new initiatives and projects to unlock the full potential of these partnerships,” he said.
He described the EU-Nigeria relationship as a robust and global partnership based on shared values, including human rights, the rule of law, democracy, and international law. “These partnerships are grounded in common interests, and we are fully transparent about the mutual benefits for both Nigeria and the EU,” he added.
Also, Mr. Mignot outlined the need for better-structured trade and investment partnerships, direct foreign investment, and enhanced economic relations.
“We aim to achieve these goals through improved frameworks for economic dialogue to address and resolve barriers hindering greater European investments in Nigeria and bilateral trade,” he said.
He noted that currently, there is no formal agreement or dialogue framework between the Nigerian government and the EU on trade and economic issues, an area he intends to address.
