President Tinubu Highlights Nigeria’s Evolving Financial System, Seeks French Investment in Food Security
President Bola Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s evolving financial system and the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to investment.
Speaking during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais de l’Élysée, Tinubu highlighted that the federal government is actively working to create opportunities for French nationals to invest in Nigeria’s economy, particularly in the area of food security.
He also pointed out that while progress has been made through the French-Nigeria Business Forum, there is a need for further efforts to address the country’s food security challenges.
Tinubu stressed the importance of investing in food security, noting that many African nations, including Nigeria, face significant challenges in this area. He stated that a nation struggling with hunger cannot focus on other issues, and emphasized that no child should go to bed hungry in the 21st century. He highlighted that ensuring children receive adequate nutrition, such as providing a glass of milk in schools, would help improve their education and overall development.
On economic collaboration, Tinubu discussed opportunities for deeper partnerships between Nigeria and France, particularly in the extractive and mining sectors. He emphasized the need to de-risk opportunities in Nigeria’s solid minerals sector, with both countries agreeing to strengthen their relationship in this area. Macron expressed his confidence in Tinubu’s leadership, noting that the French government values Nigeria’s role in Africa and looks forward to deepening bilateral ties for mutual growth and success.
In addition to the talks on food security and mining, Macron signed an agreement to encourage more French investment in Nigeria’s solid mineral sector. The agreement was finalized during a meeting with Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals Development. The state visit, which began on November 27, aims to further solidify the relationship between the two countries and promote Nigeria’s economic transformation on the global stage.