Tinubu commends gathering of France-Nigeria trade council, notes collaboration is now in implementation stage

President Bola Tinubu has confirmed that the economic ties between Nigeria and France have transitioned from mere discussions to actual implementation, as a direct result of the 10th France-Nigeria Business Council meeting held in Nairobi, Kenya, which took place during the Africa Forward Summit and brought together senior government officials and leading private-sector players from both countries.

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The meeting facilitated a significant gathering of key stakeholders, with trade between Nigeria and France increasing to $4.7 billion in 2025, as Nigeria continues to be the top destination for French investment in sub-Saharan Africa, according to a statement from the Presidency on Tuesday.

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President Tinubu emphasized that this development necessitates a shift in focus towards converting commitments into tangible outcomes, including job creation, industrial growth, infrastructure development, and broader economic benefits.

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The 10th France-Nigeria Business Council meeting was attended by prominent figures, including the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and France’s Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, Nicolas Forissier, alongside business leaders from both countries.

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Notable executives in attendance included Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, as well as Tony Elumelu, Abdul Samad Rabiu, Wale Tinubu, and Kola Karim, in addition to international executives such as Patrick Pouyanné of TotalEnergies and Rodolphe Saadé of CMA CGM.

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President Tinubu praised the Chairman of the France-Nigeria Business Council, Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, for organizing a productive engagement between the private sectors of both countries.

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The President also highlighted the signing of a partnership between Accor and Shoreline Group to develop Nigeria’s first national hotel platform, describing it as a significant expression of confidence in the country’s hospitality and tourism sector.

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President Tinubu stated, “This is the partnership Nigeria is ready for, one that builds, produces, and creates jobs, marking a new chapter of serious economic execution between Nigeria and France, as they move beyond mere goodwill exchanges.

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He further emphasized that his administration would continue to enhance the business environment, implement deeper reforms, and support credible investors, underscoring the country’s commitment to economic growth.

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According to President Tinubu, “The message from the Africa Forward summit in Nairobi is clear: Nigeria is ready, France is engaged, and the private sector in both countries is moving forward, signaling a new phase of Africa-Europe relations defined by tangible projects in various sectors.

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He noted that the next phase of Africa-Europe relations would be characterized by concrete projects in manufacturing, energy, agriculture, logistics, technology, and job creation, marking a significant shift in the economic landscape of the region.