Kano, Nigeria - German President Horst Koehler began winding up a six-day visit to Nigeria on Wednesday, travelling to the Muslim north for a colourful reception by the emir of the state of Kano.

Koehler, whose visit was devoted both to German-African affairs and to bilateral ties between Germany and Nigeria, was treated to a durbar, a colourful display of traditional military horsemanship which is normally held only twice a year, for the Muslim festivals of Eid-el Fitr and Eid-el Kabir.

The German president was due to fly back home later Wednesday after a visit which saw a deepening of German-Nigerian economic ties and a series of political talks.

Among others, the air carrier Lufthansa and energy concern E. ON signed framework agreements for cooperation with Nigerian partners during Koehler's visit.

The German president on Tuesday had praised Nigeria, which he described as a country with a great deal of strength in moving forward and in a position to shape its future.

Koehler had also taken part in the 4th Africa Forum, an initiative of his that brings together African and European business leaders. (dpa)