President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to embark on a three-day state visit to France following an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron. The trip, scheduled to begin on Wednesday, aims to strengthen ties between Nigeria and France across several key sectors, including politics, economics, and culture.
Bayo Onanuga, a spokesperson for President Tinubu, made the announcement on Tuesday, November 26. According to Onanuga, the visit is expected to create new opportunities for collaboration in areas such as agriculture, security, education, health, youth development, and energy transition. He described the visit as a significant step towards fostering partnerships that will benefit Nigeria.
During the visit, President Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, will partake in a series of ceremonial and official engagements. They will be received at Les Invalides, a historic French military museum, and later at the Élysée Palace by President Macron and his wife, Brigitte. These events will mark the start of discussions on mutual interests.
“During the visit, President Tinubu and President Macron will harmonise positions on stimulating more interest in exchange programmes that focus on skill development for youths and improving their competencies in automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
“Both leaders will participate in political and diplomatic meetings highlighting shared values on finance, solid minerals, trade and investments, and communication.
“They will also witness a session by the France-Nigeria Business Council, which oversees private sector participation in economic development,” he said.
The statement added: “Brigitte and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss the latter’s passion for empowering women, children, and the most vulnerable through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
“President Tinubu and his wife will be hosted at a state dinner by the French leader before their departure. Top government officials will accompany President Tinubu on the trip.”
