President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and attracting foreign investments in critical sectors, including food security, solid minerals, energy, education, and defense.
He made this declaration during a high-profile meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais de l’Élysée on Thursday.
In his remarks, President Tinubu emphasized the untapped potential of Nigeria’s agricultural sector, urging French investors to seize opportunities within the country’s welcoming business climate.
“The French-Nigeria Business Forum is already making strides, but we need to do more, especially in food security. Our financial sector is evolving and ready to facilitate investments,” he said.
He assured investors of Nigeria’s readiness to support private sector-driven food security initiatives, stating, “We are working on stability and creating programs for the private sector to invest in food security, ensuring that no child in Africa goes to bed hungry.”
Tinubu also highlighted the importance of solid minerals, calling for de-risking measures to attract international partnerships.
“We have immense potential in the solid minerals sector. A deeper relationship with France will accelerate development in this area,” he added.
On education and youth development, the President underscored the vitality of Nigeria’s educated and vibrant youth population, advocating for French-supported training initiatives to foster entrepreneurship and skill acquisition.
Addressing security, Tinubu called for collective action to combat terrorism and stem migration challenges.
“Nigeria is ready to partner with France in securing operations that will address migration and foster stability,” he affirmed.
President Macron lauded Tinubu’s leadership and pledged France’s support in solid minerals, creative industries, and youth development initiatives.
“We are confident in your ability to strengthen our bilateral relations. Together, we can achieve transformative economic and global success,” Macron stated.
The meeting also witnessed the signing of key agreements, including a presentation by Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, on Nigeria’s mineral investment potentials.
Earlier, President Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu received a ceremonial welcome at Hôtel des Invalides and the Palais de l’Élysée.
This state visit underscores the deepening ties between Nigeria and France, signaling mutual commitment to economic growth and global collaboration.