Bola Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, is pleased to announce the implementation of new trade deals with Germany. This includes an agreement that requires Nigeria to export liquid natural gas.

The Tinubu-led administration has been busy securing investment deals, with the most recent being the signing of two memoranda of understanding between Nigerian companies and their German counterparts on Tuesday.

The agreements were made within a two-week timeframe following a deal between Nigeria and Saudi Arabia aimed at revitalizing the operation of the nation’s inactive refineries.

Tinubu aims to enhance the appeal of the nation for potential investors in an effort to revitalize an economy burdened by sluggish growth, increasing inflation, and substantial debt.

According to a recent agreement, Riverside LNG from Nigeria will provide Germany with 850,000 tons of liquefied natural gas annually in collaboration with Johannes Schuetze Energy Import AG, a German company. The initial shipment is estimated to take place in 2026, and there is potential for an increase in gas exports in the coming years, as stated by the president’s office.

Officials report that the agreement will utilize natural gas that would have otherwise been released into the air through burning. Nigeria boasts the largest gas reserves in Africa, with a total of over 5 trillion cubic meters. However, due to inadequate processing facilities, a significant amount is burned off on a daily basis.

Nigeria has also entered into a renewable energy agreement worth $500 million with a different German company. The agreement entails Germany’s DWS Group providing funding for renewable energy initiatives in Nigeria, particularly in rural communities.

The president’s representative, Ajuri Ngelale, was unavailable for comment, but he discussed the president’s efforts to attract foreign investments in an interview with Lagos-based Channels television.

According to Ngelale, he is directly involved in implementing an open-door approach for investors worldwide, including those in Germany. This aims to provide them with direct contact with regulatory bodies and government representatives, ultimately creating a more favorable environment for foreign direct investments in the country.

Tinubu participated in the G20 Compact with Africa Summit in Berlin this week, which is seen by experts as a means for African nations to boost their economies through investment and trade.

According to Emeka Okengwu, a financial expert, these investments hold significant value.

Okengwu stated that it is impossible to ignore the impact of $500 million. This significant amount should be acknowledged and honored. He also mentioned that this investment will result in job creation, as energy is crucial for productivity. With access to energy, industries will thrive, individuals can increase production, and more job opportunities will be available.

He warned, though, “Signing the paperwork is one thing, but actually getting the deal started is another.”

Officials from Nigeria are also looking for investments in the fields of electricity and rail transportation.