Quote from Alex bobby on February 27, 2024, 2:45 AM

Germany’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, speaks on different bilateral issues and areas of cooperation between the two countries

In an exclusive interview with PREMIUM TIMES, Germany’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Günther, delves into various topics, including the disparity in the number of Nigerian students in Germany compared to its Western European counterparts. Having spent a little over two years in Nigeria, Mrs. Günther also discusses the bilateral relations between Nigeria and Germany, which have spanned over 60 years.

Excerpts:

PT: Germany has fewer Nigerian students compared to its Western European neighbors. What are your observations on why Nigerians are not choosing Germany for their studies?

Mrs. Günther: It's essential not to directly compare ourselves with the UK or Canada, as we are fundamentally different due to the language barrier. While many courses in Germany are offered in English, everyday life requires comfort in the host country's language. The demand for German language courses is high, and we currently have 4,000 Nigerian students in Germany. However, we aim to increase this number by improving access to language courses and expediting visa services for interested students.

PT: Can you elaborate on the bilateral conversation between Nigeria and Germany regarding migration, especially concerning stranded Nigerian migrants in Germany?

Mrs. Günther: Migration has been a topic of discussion. During Chancellor Scholz's visit to Nigeria, he and President Tinubu agreed that Nigerians illegally in Germany would be welcomed back to contribute to their home country. While this is a minority, the majority of the 80,000 Nigerians in Germany are contributing positively. We are also working on legal pathways for migration, running centers in Nigeria to prepare individuals for legal moves to Germany.

PT: What skilled workers are most crucial to the German economy, and how is Germany supporting development in Nigeria through agencies like GIZ?

Mrs. Günther: Skilled workers, especially in healthcare and services, are essential to the German economy. Germany's development agency, GIZ, focuses on various areas in Nigeria, including economic development, youth and skills development, agriculture, food security, and climate change. Notably, we are proud of our Energy Support Programme and Youth Skills Development Programme.

PT: How does Germany perceive Nigeria, and what initiatives are in place to enhance business relations?

Mrs. Günther: Germany values Nigeria as a trading partner, with a focus on renewable energy. We encourage German businesses to engage in Nigeria and not only export products but also establish production facilities, creating jobs and skills. Improving the investment-friendly climate and legislative environment is crucial for this collaboration.

PT: Does Germany’s support for Israel not come off as double standards when you compare it to its position on the Russia-Ukraine war?

Mrs Günther: I would not say that you can compare the two cases. Russia started a war of aggression against a sovereign state, which is completely unacceptable. It was completely unprovoked. There can be no acceptance and no understanding for Russia terrorising its neighbouring country with the war, killing people there. This is against all international standards and we have to reject that. We support Ukraine in its defence against this war of aggression.

In Gaza, we have to accept the fact that Israel was attacked, also unprovoked, very brutally. People and children were killed, who were just peacefully in their houses or celebrating. This is also completely unacceptable and we have to accept and support Israel’s right to defend itself against this aggression and terror.

Of course, we support the fight against terrorism all over the world, terrorism is unacceptable and Israel has the right to defend itself against this terror.

PT: How does Germany balance its support for Israel and its position on the Russia-Ukraine war?

Mrs. Günther: Germany views the two situations differently. While supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, we also recognize Israel's right to defend itself against terrorism. In both cases, efforts should be made to minimize civilian casualties, and we continually engage with our partners to promote international humanitarian law.

PT: Lastly, how does Germany approach security concerns in Nigeria, particularly in Abuja?

Mrs. Günther: While not personally concerned about security in Abuja, we acknowledge the shifting insecurity, reflecting broader issues in different parts of Nigeria. While Abuja remains relatively safe, addressing economic problems and grievances is essential to resolving the general phenomenon of insecurity in the country.

PT: It is not a question of being targeted but that of not knowing who the next person might be. Mrs Gunther: There are so many other cities in the world where you would not walk in the street in the middle of the night or where you do not go to certain areas at certain times of the day. Abuja is not a very dangerous or criminal city. No, it’s not. It is safe, you can move around. But even in Berlin, there are areas where I do not go to, especially at night. So unfortunately, it is a phenomenon of big cities and Abuja is growing and it is becoming a big city. These are unfortunately phenomena that we see all over the world.