President Bola Tinubu and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron have signed two agreements that will ensure a partnership on the development of critical infrastructure and the long-term sustenance of agriculture and food security.....Read Full Article>>
The partnership agreements, according to a statement by the Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, were signed at an economic forum attended by businessmen, captains of industry, governors, and some top government officials of both countries at the Palais des Elysée in Paris, France, during President Tinubu’s state visit. Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, and Mr. Armand signed the Letter of Intent.
According to the document: “The two countries affirmed their commitment to work together on investment and development of critical infrastructure, healthcare transportation, agricultural value chain, renewable energy, and human capital development, through diverse financial and technical assistance programmes, of over Euros 300m spread across all geopolitical zones in the country.
“The two countries committed to forge a strategic relationship in project implementation and enhance mutual trade and cross border services by removing fiscal barriers while protecting labour rights.”
Minister of Finance, Edun, and Chief Executive Officer of the French Development Agency (AFD), Mr. Remi Rioux, signed another Letter of Intent to support the Renewed Hope Agenda reforms designed to stimulate and strengthen the economy.
“The Declaration”, the document stated, “ set out the enduring relationship between the AFD and the FRN, and the AFD’s continuing commitment to support the socio-economic growth of Nigeria through financing sustainable projects in urban infrastructure development, transportation network, housing infrastructure, human capital development through improved education specifically in STEM, agriculture, food security and healthcare.
“The AFD reaffirmed its commitment to long-term support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of Mr. President on energy access and transition, sustainable agriculture and food security by financing the improvement of agro-logistic hubs. Importantly, the AFD committed to supporting the real sector by providing capital from MSME in high-impact sectors.
“The Federal Republic of Nigeria also affirmed its support for the projects financed by the AFD and committed to ensure that the implementation of the projects are expedited efficiently.”
The two Presidents had earlier in Paris, the French capital witnessed the signing of the agreement by the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group Chairman Tony Elumelu and Mr. Antoine Armand, the French Minister of Economy, Finance and Industry for the bank to commence operations in Paris.
Zenith Bank also inaugurated its services in the country during the visit.
Meanwhile, Tinubu once more assured Nigerians that the ongoing reforms in Nigeria would improve Africa’s economic prospects.
Speaking Thursday night at the State Dinner organised by the French government for him at Palais des Elysée in Paris, the President said: “Regarding Nigeria’s economy, as you have said, we have embarked on a very strong reform, and there is no looking back. It is in the interest of the entire continent that we don’t continue in the past. We must brace up for the future with commitment and optimism. And with the courage of our founding fathers.
“President Macron, all your efforts about Africa, I promise you shall not be in vain,” he stated.
President Tinubu while noting that the future remained bright for better relations with France emphasised that he was glad to be leading Nigeria during the trying times of the nation.
His words: “It is a good time for all of us. I cannot be prouder than I am to be President of Nigeria at this challenging time. I have people who are very clearly inspired, who are determined to change the course of Africa by changing the rot of the past, blending a future that our children and grandchildren can hold, and be open, and be proud.”
The President also lauded the amicable relations with French President Emmanuel Macron, appreciating his interest in Africa.
He also expressed confidence that Macron’s goodwill would foster stronger bilateral ties, benefiting the entire continent.
The Nigerian leader encouraged both Nigerian and French citizens to uphold the cordial relationship shared by their nations.
First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu accompanied the President to the dinner, along with top Nigerian government officials, businessmen, and the Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
“It is a great honour for me to be here. And it’s been a great day because you have arranged a great reception.
“Appreciating that you have a good knowledge of Nigeria is not enough. Your warmth, your commitment, and your foresight in Africa are remarkable.
“You stirred my excitement and caught my attention as a leader. Thank you.
“France went through a lot to put freedom, democracy and commitment together. Your effort is very inspiring for us to work together. We have no choice but to build a continent that connects, resonates for its people, and cares about the people and development,” President Tinubu said.
He thanked the French leader and his wife, Brigitte, for the State Visit and the three-day reception.
“In addition to the economic prospects and what you mean to Europe, to America and the African continent, there is a good prospect that you will not forget who we are. You open your doors for investment for our friends and brothers here. I could see Aliko Dangote, Aig Imoukhuede, and Tony Elumelu here. You have memories of your friends in Nigeria. You asked for Mike Adenuga earlier today. Thank you,” he added.
In his remarks, President Macron acknowledged Nigeria’s leadership in Africa, recognising its role as a ‘big brother’ to the continent.
He praised Nigerians for their resilience and intellect, mentioning Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and musician Femi Kuti as global figures.
“Nigeria is a formidable country with talented young people. Many Nigerians are exceptional in their chosen careers.
“You conquered military rule and took your liberty. President Tinubu transformed the economy in Lagos, and now you are on a mission to transform the country,” he stressed.
Macron noted that French investors have long been active in Nigeria, particularly in oil, gas, construction, and food security.
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