Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, expressed optimism about the country’s economic future due to ongoing government reforms.
Bagudu made this statement while receiving a delegation from Germany’s Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Giessen-Friedberg in Abuja on Friday.
The minister highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s bold moves to revamp the economy and praised the CCI’s dual training and apprenticeship program as a timely initiative, according to TheCable.
This program aims to provide young Nigerians with valuable skills and practical experience.
“There cannot be a better time for this, as it will support the social investment programme and economic reforms of the government,” he said.
“Germany is the bedrock of the European Union, as Nigeria is the bedrock of ECOWAS, Germany is one of the success stories in Nigeria in the provision of aluminium, construction, pharmaceuticals, machinery and equipment manufacturing expertise.”
Germany’s successful vocational training model, which combines classroom instruction with on-the-job experience, serves as the basis for this program.
Already operational in Ogun state, it aligns with Nigeria’s efforts to enhance youth employability.
Bagudu also discussed Nigeria’s migration agreement with Germany, enabling Nigerian youths to migrate legally and become global citizens. This agreement aims to prevent criminal involvement in host countries.
The minister emphasized his ministry’s commitment to bilateral economic cooperation, including development aid and technical assistance programs. Germany’s relaxed immigration rules for EU/EFTA citizens are expected to benefit Nigerian youths seeking opportunities abroad.
The CCI Geissen-Friedberg’s CEO, Matthias Leder, reiterated the importance of strengthening cooperation between German and Nigerian industries. Key areas of focus include dual vocational training, legal skills migration, and expanded rights.
This development is expected to boost Nigeria’s economy and provide opportunities for its youth. As the country continues to navigate its economic challenges, the success of these reforms and initiatives will be closely watched.
