Tinubu set for three-day state visit to France

President Bola Tinubu will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a three-day state visit to France, following an invitation from French President Emmanuel Macron.

The announcement was made in a statement by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Tuesday. The statement, titled ‘President Tinubu honours invitation for a state visit to France,’ outlines the purpose of the visit.

Tinubu’s visit, which aims to strengthen political, economic, and cultural ties between Nigeria and France, will focus on expanding opportunities for collaboration in areas such as agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement, employment, innovation, and energy transition. Onanuga emphasized that the visit is expected to yield significant benefits for Nigeria.

During the visit, Tinubu and his wife, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, will be received by Macron and his wife, Brigitte, on Thursday at the historic French military museum, Les Invalides, and the Palais de l’Élysée. The initial ceremonies will lead into bilateral discussions.

The two leaders will focus on initiatives to encourage exchange programs aimed at youth skill development, with a particular emphasis on automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.

Both leaders are also expected to engage in diplomatic talks on shared interests in finance, solid minerals, trade, investments, and communication. Additionally, they will attend a session by the France-Nigeria Business Council, which fosters private sector involvement in economic growth.

First Ladies Brigitte Macron and Oluremi Tinubu will also hold discussions on empowering women, children, and vulnerable groups through Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Initiative.

Before their departure, Tinubu and his wife will be hosted to a state dinner by President Macron. The President will be accompanied by senior Nigerian government officials during the visit.