German Ambassador to Nigeria, Annett Gunther, has stated that Germany is looking to Nigeria as a critical supplier in its quest to meet growing hydrogen demands and advance its green energy transition.

Speaking at the opening of a two-day working group meeting on Nigeria’s hydrogen policy in Abuja, Gunther highlighted Nigeria’s abundant natural resources, strategic location, and progressive leadership as key factors positioning the country as an emerging leader in the global hydrogen economy.

The meeting, organized by German agency Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit, convened stakeholders to review Nigeria’s draft hydrogen policy, identifying strengths and addressing gaps to bolster the nation’s renewable energy framework.

The German Ambassador said, “Germany recognizes Nigeria’s immense potential in renewable energy, essential for the production of green hydrogen.

“Your country’s abundant natural resources, strategic location, and forward-thinking leadership position place Nigeria advantageously in the emerging global hydrogen economy.”

She stated that reaching her country’s climate targets, including net-zero emissions by 2045, depends on strong, dependable international partnerships with nations like Nigeria.

The envoy further said, “Recognizing the pace of global innovation, this strategy has since been updated and expanded—most recently with the introduction of our hydrogen import strategy. This reflects a clear understanding: Germany will not be able to meet its hydrogen needs through domestic production alone.

“To reach our climate goals, including net-zero 2045, strong and reliable international partnerships are essential. It is also in this context that we see pioneering countries like Nigeria as key partners—countries that combine renewable potential with ambition, technical expertise, and a shared vision for a climate-neutral future.”

In his remark, the Country Director of GIZ Nigeria and ECOWAS, Dr. Marcus Wagner, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s journey toward energy diversification and the development of a sustainable hydrogen economy.

“Germany looks forward to continuing to support Nigeria on its path towards energy diversification and in creating a sustainable hydrogen economy.

“We are convinced that today’s discussions will provide valuable insights that will contribute to the finalization of the hydrogen policy,” Wagner stated.

Wagner underscored the significance of the initiative, noting that the national hydrogen policy is designed to lay the groundwork for establishing a forward-looking and sustainable hydrogen economy in Nigeria.

“A time of global transition towards sustainable energy systems, Nigeria is positioning itself as a pioneer on the African continent with this step,” he said.

He explained that the working group meeting would serve as a vital platform for inclusive dialogue among all relevant stakeholders.

However, he urged the experts to recognize that their “expertise and commitment are essential to crafting a hydrogen policy that truly reflects Nigeria’s unique needs and potential.”

Meanwhile, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, stated that with strategic planning, hydrogen could become Nigeria’s next major source of foreign income.

Represented by the ministry’s Director of Economic Growth, he said: “It is important to know distinguished stakeholders that Nigeria possesses the core assets to lead in the hydrogen economy space due to its abundant renewable energy sources ideal for hydrogen production.

“With strategic planning, hydrogen can become a cornerstone of our diversification agenda, reducing our overreliance on crude oil exports while unlocking new revenue streams, industrial development, regional trade, and exports to the international market.”

He noted that the primary objective of the workshop is “to present the Zero Draft Hydrogen Policy to this distinguished gathering of professionals, with the aim of gathering your expert feedback, constructive criticism, and valuable insights to further refine and strengthen the policy.”