Nigeria And France Strengthen Ties With Focus On Education And Investment.
During a high-profile meeting at the Palais de l’Élysée, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu outlined Nigeria’s strategy to tackle its out-of-school children crisis through education and skills training. Speaking with French President Emmanuel Macron, President Tinubu highlighted the Nigerian government’s commitment to returning children to classrooms and equipping older youths with skills for the workforce.
The President emphasised that insecurity in parts of Nigeria had made it difficult for children to attend school, but ongoing efforts were gradually improving the situation. “We are re-populating classrooms and bridging the gaps with skills development,” he said. Tinubu acknowledged the critical role education plays in national development, adding, “A well-educated populace is essential for Nigeria’s growth.”
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu joined the President in underscoring the importance of education, while President Macron commended Nigeria’s initiatives and pledged France’s continued support in advancing educational and developmental goals.
Beyond education, the meeting saw both leaders commit to strengthening bilateral relations in key sectors, including food security, energy, solid minerals, and defence. President Tinubu invited French investors to take advantage of Nigeria’s agricultural and solid minerals potential, emphasising that the country’s evolving financial sector offers a conducive environment for foreign direct investment.
“The French-Nigeria Business Forum is already making strides, but we need to do more on food security and investment,” Tinubu remarked. He assured French enterprises of ease in establishing and operating businesses in Nigeria, highlighting the nation’s youthful and entrepreneurial population as a driving force for economic growth.
On security, Tinubu called for collective responsibility to combat terrorism and ensure regional stability, stressing Nigeria’s readiness to partner with France in addressing migration challenges and fostering peace across West Africa.
President Macron hailed the meeting as a milestone in deepening France-Nigeria relations. Reflecting on his earlier experiences in Nigeria during an internship, Macron expressed confidence in Tinubu’s leadership and vision for transforming Nigeria’s economy.
The French President also acknowledged the global challenges of food security and climate change, advocating for joint efforts to address these issues. “We must work as partners for collective, global success,” Macron stated, adding that France would increase its support for Nigeria’s solid minerals sector and creative industries.
President Tinubu concluded by stressing the importance of providing opportunities for Nigeria’s youth through education and entrepreneurship, stating, “In the 21st century, no child should go to bed hungry. A starved nation cannot focus on progress.”
The meeting between the two leaders has set the stage for enhanced cooperation, with a shared vision for mutual growth and stability. As President Macron assured, France remains committed to building a stronger partnership with Nigeria, focused on sustainable development and innovation.
