Germany has pledged 49 million euros (about 82 billion naira) to support the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its efforts to promote peace, economic development, health, and security across West Africa. This commitment follows bilateral negotiations on development cooperation held at the ECOWAS Commission Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, on November 4 and 5, 2025.
The meeting included key representatives from both sides. The German delegation featured Annett Günther, Ambassador of Germany to Nigeria and ECOWAS, and Christoph Rauh, Director for Africa at Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). Vice President Damtien L. Tchintchibidza led the ECOWAS delegation.
Discussions focused on ongoing cooperation between Germany and ECOWAS in areas such as peaceful societies, regional economic integration, climate and energy transition, and health initiatives. Germany is supporting projects related to institutional reform, regional trade facilitation, climate-friendly energy solutions, and pandemic prevention.
Both parties addressed current challenges facing ECOWAS—including political transitions, economic pressures, regional unity issues, and the need for institutional reforms. They reaffirmed their commitment to tackle these issues through dialogue, technical assistance, improved communication of results, and inclusive engagement with citizens. The talks concluded with a joint affirmation of dedication to the ECOWAS Vision 2050 framework as well as Germany’s Africa Strategy.
Vice President Tchintchibidza highlighted the importance of this partnership: “Following the last negotiations of September 2023 in Berlin, and the bilateral consultations held in 2024 in Abuja, we are gathered here today to take stock of the achievements and results of the ECOWAS-German cooperation and define priorities and clear perspectives for the next two years. Through our efforts and equitable partnerships, we are working assiduously towards deeper integration, enhanced peace and security with the ultimate goal of building an inclusive, resilient and prosperous region.”
She continued: “The ECOWAS-German cooperation has made significant progress in recent years, and this is due to two factors: increased convergence around shared priorities and improved coordination among actors. I would like to reiterate our commitment to this bilateral cooperation and express our deep appreciation to the German Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).”
Ambassador Günther reinforced Germany’s position: “Germany stands firmly with ECOWAS as a trusted partner, united by shared values of peace, stability, and inclusive growth. Our cooperation is not only about financial support and projects but about empowering institutions, strengthening democracy, and improving the lives of people across the region.”
Christoph Rauh added: “Our cooperation with ECOWAS reflects mutual respect and a shared vision — to promote peaceful and inclusive societies, create economic opportunities, and strengthen regional solidarity. Together we are building bridges between people, economies, and institutions for a better future.”
Germany has supported ECOWAS since 1985 through technical and financial projects totaling approximately €494 million. For 2025–2026 alone it has committed €49 million—€32.8 million for financial cooperation projects plus €16.2 million for technical assistance—in core areas identified during these latest discussions.
Support from Germany is channeled via BMZ as well as agencies including GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), KfW (Kreditanstalt für Wiederaufbau), and PTB (Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt). Over time this collaboration has contributed toward regional peacebuilding efforts; governance reforms; climate resilience; pandemic response; trade facilitation; and strengthening institutional capacity.