President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a three-day state visit to France at the invitation of President Emmanuel Macron.
The trip comes just days after Tinubu returned from the G-20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he engaged in high-level discussions on global economic issues.
According to a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, said the visit to France aims to deepen political, economic, and cultural ties while creating opportunities for collaboration in agriculture, security, education, health, youth development, innovation, and energy transition.
Accompanied by his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, the President will be received on Thursday at the historic Les Invalides and the Palais de l’Élysée by President Macron and his wife, Brigitte Macron, for ceremonial events leading into high-level bilateral talks.
Onanuga noted that “the visit promises significant benefits for Nigeria, especially in stimulating interest in programmes that develop skills in automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership for Nigerian youths.”
During the visit, Presidents Tinubu and Macron will focus on fostering youth skill development through exchange programmes. The talks will also cover key areas such as finance, trade, solid minerals, communication, and private sector investments.
One of the highlights of the visit will be a session with the France-Nigeria Business Council. According to the statement, “This council plays a vital role in driving private sector participation in economic development and will strengthen economic ties between both nations.”
Meanwhile, Brigitte Macron and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss initiatives to empower women, children, and vulnerable groups, a passion Oluremi Tinubu has championed through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
The French President will host Tinubu and his delegation at a state dinner before their return to Nigeria.
