The European Union has announced a €290 million investment package for Nigeria aimed at strengthening key sectors including digital infrastructure, agriculture, healthcare manufacturing, and migration management.
Gatekeepers News reports that the funding was unveiled during the eighth Nigeria–EU ministerial dialogue held in Abuja, co-chaired by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, and EU foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas.
A major portion of the investment, €131 million, has been allocated to the digital sector to expand connectivity, improve digital services, and develop tech skills across the country.
The initiative includes plans to roll out about 90,000 kilometres of fibre-optic cables, which is expected to provide internet access to roughly 33 million Nigerians currently lacking reliable connectivity.
In the healthcare sector, a €50 million financing agreement between the European Investment Bank and the Bank of Industry will support local production of pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and medical devices. The move is designed to reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imported medical products while boosting industrial capacity and job creation.
Agriculture will also benefit significantly, with €85 million earmarked to strengthen value chains, particularly in cocoa and dairy production. The funding is expected to support smallholder farmers, agribusinesses, and cooperatives, improving productivity and sustainability.
Additionally, €16 million has been set aside for migration-related programmes, including reintegration support for returnees and efforts to combat human trafficking.
The investment forms part of the EU’s Global Gateway strategy, which seeks to boost infrastructure, create jobs, and deepen economic ties with partner countries.
Officials say the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s development priorities and broader continental goals such as increased local vaccine production and enhanced regional trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area.
