President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a three-day official visit to France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the visit aims to deepen ties between Nigeria and France across various sectors, including agriculture, education, health, security, energy, and youth development.
“This visit promises to yield significant benefits for Nigeria, as it focuses on strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations between both nations,” the statement read.
Upon arrival, President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu will be officially welcomed at Les Invalides, a historic French military museum, and at the Élysée Palace, where they will meet with President Macron and his wife, Brigitte.
The two leaders will hold bilateral talks to align strategies for enhancing skills among youths, fostering innovation, and promoting entrepreneurship.
“They will harmonize positions to stimulate interest in exchange programmes focusing on automation, leadership, and capacity-building for Nigerian youths,” Onanuga stated.
The visit will also feature discussions on finance, trade, solid minerals, and communication, with both presidents set to attend a meeting of the France-Nigeria Business Council. The council is tasked with encouraging private-sector investment to drive economic growth.
In addition, the First Ladies of both nations will hold a separate meeting. “Mrs. Tinubu will share insights on her work through the Renewed Hope Initiative, which focuses on empowering women, children, and vulnerable groups,” the presidency confirmed.
The visit will culminate in a state dinner hosted by President Macron and his wife before the Nigerian delegation returns home.
Tinubu is expected to be accompanied by top government officials.
