French President Emmanuel Macron has officially welcomed Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to France for a state visit, the first by a Nigerian leader in over two decades.
The two leaders met at the historic Invalides memorial complex in Paris, where President Tinubu inspected a guard of honour and the national anthems of both nations were played.
The visit focuses on strengthening ties in key areas such as trade, agriculture, energy, education, and security.
Macron described the visit as an opportunity to deepen relations with Africa’s most populous nation.
Tinubu, on his part, expressed optimism about fostering new partnerships, emphasising the importance of mutual benefits.
Nigeria, a major oil producer and home to the Nollywood film industry, seeks increased foreign investment to address challenges like inflation, poverty, and insecurity.
France also aims to expand its influence in English-speaking Africa, following setbacks in its former colonies.
Both leaders aim to build a “partnership of equals,” reinforcing ties in a rapidly urbanising and economically emerging Africa.
