Paris, France — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to forging stronger ties with France in key sectors, including food security, energy, solid minerals, education, and defence. During a high-level meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais des L’Élysée on Thursday, both leaders expressed mutual interest in expanding economic collaboration and addressing global challenges.
At a joint press conference, Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential, calling on French investors to tap into the country’s burgeoning opportunities. “The French-Nigeria Business Forum is making strides, but we must do more to ensure food security. Investment in Nigeria is essential,” Tinubu stated.
He underscored the role of Nigeria’s evolving financial sector in facilitating foreign investments. “Our financial sector is flourishing and creating platforms for French nationals to invest, especially in agriculture and food security. Stability is within reach, and we can achieve more together,” he added.
Attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI)
President Tinubu outlined plans to attract FDI, noting its potential to uplift the livelihoods of Nigerians. He highlighted the country’s vibrant, youthful population as an asset, ready for entrepreneurial development. Tinubu urged France to support Nigeria in training programs for young people, emphasizing the importance of human capital development.
“De-risking investments in solid minerals is also critical. Nigeria has untapped potential, and we are committed to fostering deeper partnerships,” Tinubu noted.
Food Security as a Priority
Addressing the pressing issue of food security, Tinubu stressed the need for international collaboration. “A hungry nation cannot focus on broader issues like climate change. No child in the 21st century should go to bed hungry,” he said. Tinubu suggested that providing basic nourishment, such as a glass of milk, could incentivize school attendance and improve educational outcomes.
He also pointed to Nigeria’s blue economy, highlighting investment opportunities in fisheries, especially in Lagos, where efforts have been made to harness the Atlantic Ocean. “Fishery is a vital investment area, and we are ready to welcome French investors with open arms. It will be an ‘easy in, easy out’ process,” Tinubu assured.
Security and Anti-Terrorism Collaboration
On security, Tinubu called for collective action to combat terrorism and irregular migration. “Nigeria is ready to partner with France on security operations to address these challenges,” he said, emphasizing that stability in West Africa is crucial for global peace.
Macron’s Commitment to Strengthening Ties
President Macron hailed Tinubu’s visit as a pivotal moment in strengthening Franco-Nigerian relations. He pledged France’s support in fostering collaborative growth in creative industries and youth development.
“We are confident in your leadership, Mr. President. Our partnership with Nigeria will not only benefit both nations but also bolster regional stability, with ECOWAS playing a central role,” Macron stated. He also praised Tinubu’s “visionary leadership and energy” in transforming Nigeria’s economy.
Macron announced plans to encourage French investments in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, following a presentation by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake.
Symbolic Welcome
Earlier in the day, President Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu received a ceremonial welcome at Hotel Les Invalides and Palais De l’Élysée. The state visit, marked by discussions and agreements, signaled a new chapter in Franco-Nigerian relations, focusing on mutual growth and development across various sectors.