French President Emmanuel Macron has showered praise on Nigerian President Bola Tinubu for his leadership in applying the transformative policies he implemented in Lagos to the broader national stage.
Macron made the remarks during a joint press conference in Paris on Thursday, as part of Tinubu’s official visit to France.
Macron lauded Tinubu for his dynamic leadership, which he said has invigorated both Lagos and, more recently, Nigeria’s national development agenda.
The French leader emphasized Tinubu’s ability to instill confidence in global business communities, making Nigeria an increasingly attractive destination for international investments.
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“I would like to congratulate you for your leadership and the desire for us to work together. I would like to thank you, Mr. President, for your presence on the state visit. I’d like to thank you for your energy and dynamism,” Macron said.
Macron highlighted Tinubu’s success in transforming Lagos, noting that the same energy was now being directed toward reshaping Nigeria as a whole.
“Having transformed the state of Lagos, you’re using that energy to transform your country for the better,” he added.
The French President further noted the palpable optimism felt among French business leaders and investors, who now view Nigeria as a major partner for the future.
“The energy that we have felt among your ministers, investors, and business communities has completely convinced us — the French and also the whole business world — to invest in your country,” Macron said, underscoring the growing economic ties between the two nations.
In addition to economic cooperation, Macron underscored the multi-sectoral partnership France and Nigeria are building.
He pointed out the deepening cooperation in sectors such as health, the creative industries, and climate action.
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Furthermore, Macron mentioned that France has become a hub for Nigerian financial institutions, with more Nigerian banks establishing a presence in France in recent years.
“We have become the business hub for Nigerian business in France. Many banks have opened their offices here. We have financial partnerships. Apart from this economic partnership, which makes France a long-term partner with you, we also want to partner with you on food security and the extraction of your minerals,” Macron stated.
