President Bola Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening cooperation with France in critical sectors, including food security, energy, solid minerals, education, and defense. This came during his meeting with President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais des L’Élysée in Paris, where both leaders discussed opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.
At the joint press conference, President Tinubu highlighted the immense potential in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, urging international investors, particularly French businesses, to take advantage of Nigeria’s evolving economic policies. “The French-Nigeria Business Forum is already doing a lot, but we need to do more on food security. It is a shared responsibility, and Nigeria is ready to work hand-in-hand with global partners,” Tinubu said.
The President emphasized the reforms in Nigeria’s financial sector, designed to attract foreign direct investment (FDI) into critical industries like agriculture. “Nigeria’s financial sector is flourishing and open for business, particularly in areas like food security where opportunities abound for foreign investors,” Tinubu explained.
President Tinubu also addressed the need for innovative solutions to food security challenges, calling for a robust private-sector-driven program. “It is our responsibility to create a stable and attractive environment for investments that will feed our growing population and secure the future of our economy,” he noted.
On education, the president appealed to the French government for collaborative training initiatives aimed at equipping Nigeria’s youth with skills in entrepreneurship and modern industries. “We have a vibrant youth population that is educated and eager to learn. Partnering with France on training programs will unlock tremendous potential,” Tinubu stated.
Touching on security, President Tinubu called for collective global action against terrorism and migration issues. He described Nigeria as a reliable partner in tackling security challenges in Africa and beyond. He further identified Nigeria’s blue economy and fisheries as promising sectors for investment. “In Lagos, we have harnessed the Atlantic Ocean for development. Fisheries offer a significant opportunity for both local and foreign investors,” he said.
President Macron lauded Tinubu’s leadership and vision, pledging stronger economic ties and support for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector. Macron also emphasized the importance of collaborative growth through youth-focused initiatives, creative industries, and humanitarian efforts. “We are confident in your leadership, Mr. President, and look forward to a deeper partnership that benefits Nigeria, France, and the entire West African region,” Macron said.
The bilateral meeting culminated in the signing of agreements to strengthen partnerships in mining, education, and energy, with commitments from both sides to deepen cooperation in the years ahead.
