The Federal Republic of Nigeria is a partner country of German Development Cooperation.

Since 1974, GTZ has been active in the country on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ).

Nigeria has a population of around 132.8 million (2002) and an area of 923,800 sq km, making it both the most populous and one of the largest countries in Africa. Despite being rich in natural resources, principally oil, the country is facing numerous problems hampering development. To date, it has not been possible to use oil revenues to develop the economy and combat poverty. The World Bank estimates that 60 to 70 percent of the population has to survive on less than one US$ per day. Only ten percent of the population earn more than  US$ 2,000 per year. Almost half the urban population is unemployed. There is a high level of illiteracy (around 30 percent) and the annual population growth is 2.2 percent. These factors, coupled with severe ethnic, religious, social and regional differences, pose problems for the economic and social development of the country. Fluctuations in the price of oil, combined with economic and political instability, exacerbate the situation.

In comparison with other African states, the framework conditions for private sector initiatives in the Federal Republic of Nigeria are particularly poor. Consequently, Nigerian reform policy, intended to promote the private sector, has been only partially successful. Considerable support is necessary in many areas if the development goals are to be reached.

Promoting trades and crafts is part of GTZ's work