Abuja: Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, has underscored the need for investors to leverage Nigeria-Germany cultural ties to drive the country’s growth. Tuggar gave the advice while receiving the Salute Nigeria Initiative, organisers of the Nigeria-German Investment and Cultural Expo (NGICE), at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the minister, who had served as Ambassador of Nigeria to Germany for six years, commended the NGICE concept, saying it could further strengthen Nigeria-Germany diplomatic relations. He emphasized that Germany has a comprehensive understanding of culture, which provides a solid foundation for collaboration with Nigeria.
Tuggar highlighted the potential within Nigeria’s cultural space that requires investment and collaboration, noting a renaissance in Nigerian culture. He pointed out the growing global recognition of Nigerian music, food, and fashion, and the high demand for Nigerian superfoods such as Moringa, bamboo, and ginger.
The minister advised that the Ministries of Culture and Tourism, as well as Industry, Trade and Investment, should be involved to bolster partnership in the NGICE. He also suggested that Nigeria’s mission in Berlin be informed to facilitate visa processes and ensure the German Embassy in Nigeria is fully engaged in the initiative.
Dr. Mike Okiro, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Salute Nigeria Initiative, remarked that Berlin was chosen for the NGICE due to Germany’s position as Europe’s cultural hub. Okiro, a former Inspector-General of Police, expressed confidence that Tuggar’s experience as Nigeria’s ambassador to Germany would attract more investors and benefit Nigeria.
Okiro emphasized that Nigeria has numerous resources beyond crude oil and gas that can be marketed globally, particularly its culture. He stated that the NGICE aims not only to promote culture but also to attract investment into Nigeria.
Amb. Chielo Ojirika, Director-General of the Salute Nigeria Initiative, stated that the event’s goal is to project Nigeria’s image and culture while attracting foreign investments. Scheduled for Oct. 20 to 23 in Berlin, the event seeks to showcase Nigeria’s investment and cultural potential and strengthen bilateral and economic relations with Germany and other European countries.