German President in Lagos, pledges to promote business, tech

German President, Joachim Gauck, yesterday visited the Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode, pledging his country’s technical support to Nigeria in the fight against terrorism.

Gauck, who spoke through an interpreter, stated that the purpose of his visit to Nigeria was to strengthen the cordial relationship between the two countries and to forge additional trade ties.

He expressed his willingness to share his country’s experiences in the field of science and technology, especially in the areas of capacity building.

The German President who is visiting Nigeria for the first time, scheduled to meet with President Muhammadu Buhari later in the week, expressed confidence in the steps being taken by the present government in the country to address the nation’s challenges.

He said: “I am delighted to be here in Lagos and we in Germany and in Europe are more than aware of the importance of this city as a centre of business, of political development and of creativity in West Africa. At the same time, I am delighted to be here in Lagos on my very first visit to Nigeria. I am happy to learn more and hear more about the successes of this country and the problems it has to tackle.

“My visit is meant to underline the close ties existing between Germany and Nigeria. We have great interest in the area of trade. We in Germany are ready to share our experiences in those areas where you think they might prove helpful or necessary and we are happy to share the experiences we have acquired in fostering security and fostering social security.