President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to ongoing reforms, stressing their significance for not just Nigeria but the entire African continent.
During a State Dinner hosted by the French government at the Palais des Elysée in Paris on Thursday, Tinubu spoke highly of Nigeria’s growing relationship with France and emphasized that his government was fully committed to the tax and economic reforms it had embarked upon.
He assured French President Emmanuel Macron that there would be no turning back on these reforms. Tinubu stressed that they were vital for Africa’s future and should be embraced by all African nations.
As he addressed the gathering, Tinubu encouraged both Nigerian and French citizens to continue strengthening the friendly ties between their countries. He emphasized that Africa must focus on building a connected, people-centered continent that prioritizes development.
The Nigerian President highlighted the economic prospects that the relationship between Nigeria and France could bring, not just for Africa but for the global community. He mentioned the significance of African business leaders, including Aliko Dangote, Aig Imoukhuede, and Tony Elumelu, who were present at the event, and noted that Macron had expressed interest in Nigerian business mogul Mike Adenuga earlier that day.
Tinubu added that there is no turning back on the path Nigeria has chosen, as it embarks on a reform journey aimed at transforming the country and its economy. He expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future and its leadership role in Africa, despite the challenges the nation faces.
“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,” Tinubu remarked. “Our goal is to change the course of Africa by confronting past challenges and creating a future that our children can be proud of.”
On the subject of Nigeria’s economic reforms, Tinubu stated that the country’s recent changes were necessary for Africa’s economic growth and development. He emphasized that the reforms were not just for Nigeria’s benefit but for the continent as a whole, urging a shift from the status quo to a future defined by growth, optimism, and resilience.
“We are on a path of deep reform, and there is no turning back. It is in the interest of the whole continent that we don’t continue with the old ways. Africa’s future depends on embracing change with courage and optimism,” he said.
In his speech, President Macron acknowledged Nigeria’s pivotal role in Africa, describing the country as a “big brother” to the continent. He praised the resilience and talent of the Nigerian people, referencing global figures such as Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and musician Femi Kuti as examples of the country’s exceptional individuals.
“Nigeria is a formidable country with talented young people who are excelling globally,” Macron stated. “You have overcome military rule, fought for your liberty, and now President Tinubu is leading efforts to transform Nigeria’s economy.”
Macron also commended the long-standing presence of French investors in Nigeria, particularly in sectors such as oil, gas, construction, and food security. He pointed to emerging opportunities in industries like solid minerals, technology, and the film sector as areas where both countries could further collaborate.
The French president concluded by expressing confidence that Nigeria and France would continue to lead together, forging a strong partnership for the future.
As the evening progressed, it was clear that both leaders were eager to nurture the growing ties between their countries, and the discussions foreshadowed greater collaboration in the coming years.
