President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a state visit to France, following an invitation from President Emmanuel Macron.
A statement issued on Tuesday by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, explained that the three-day visit will focus on strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations, as well as establishing more opportunities for partnerships, particularly in agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement and employment, innovation, and energy transition. The visit promises significant benefits for Nigeria.
The statement also noted that President Tinubu and his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, will be received on Thursday at the 350-year-old French military museum, Les Invalides, and Palais de l’Élysée by Macron and his spouse, Brigitte, for the initial ceremonies, which will then lead into bilateral meetings.
The statement added that during the visit, President Tinubu and President Macron will harmonize their positions on stimulating greater interest in exchange programs focused on skill development for youth, and improving their competencies in automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
Both leaders will also engage in political and diplomatic meetings highlighting shared values on finance, solid minerals, trade and investments, and communication. They will participate in a session hosted by the France-Nigeria Business Council, which oversees private sector participation in economic development.
Brigitte and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss their shared passion for empowering women, children, and the most vulnerable through the Renewed Hope Initiative.
President Tinubu and his wife will be hosted at a state dinner by the French leader before their departure.
Top government officials will accompany President Tinubu on the trip.