By Amofokhai Williams
President Bola Tinubu is poised to embark on a crucial state visit to France on Wednesday, accepting an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron.
This is coming three days after he returned from his trip to Brazil to attend the G20 Summit.
This diplomatic mission promises to redefine Nigeria’s ties with France across pivotal sectors, including security, agriculture, energy transition, and youth empowerment.
Presidential spokesman, Bayo Onanuga in a statement on Tuesday said the three-day visit would feature a grand reception at the historic Les Invalides and the iconic Palais de l’Élysée, where President Tinubu and First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, would be welcomed by President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron.
This marks the beginning of high-level bilateral discussions designed to unlock unprecedented opportunities for both nations.
Onanuga said key on the agenda is a renewed focus on empowering Nigeria’s youth through advanced exchange programmes aimed at fostering innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurial skills.
He explained that the discussions would extend to critical sectors such as solid minerals, trade, finance, and private-sector collaboration during a landmark session with the France-Nigeria Business Council.
Onanuga added that in parallel, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu would engage Brigitte Macron in talks centred on her Renewed Hope Initiative, a project championing the welfare of women, children, and vulnerable communities in Nigeria.
The state visit will culminate in a formal state dinner hosted by the Macrons, underscoring the importance of this partnership.
President Tinubu’s entourage will include senior government officials pivotal to advancing these bilateral goals.
