French President Emmanuel Macron is expected to make a State visit to Nigeria later this year, marking a significant step in efforts by Paris and Abuja to strengthen diplomatic, economic and security cooperation.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by the French Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Marc Fonbaustier, during celebrations marking France’s National Day in Abuja.
According to the ambassador, Macron’s visit will come two years after President Bola Tinubu paid a State visit to France, providing both leaders with an opportunity to assess the progress made in bilateral relations and agree on new areas of cooperation.
Macron, Tinubu to Review Bilateral Roadmap
Describing the planned trip as an important milestone, Fonbaustier said the two presidents would evaluate the implementation of existing agreements while outlining fresh priorities designed to strengthen ties between both nations.
He expressed confidence that the discussions would produce mutually beneficial outcomes for Nigeria and France across several sectors.
France Reaffirms Partnership of Equals
The French envoy stressed that relations between both countries are built on mutual respect and equality rather than dominance.
He said France remains committed to maintaining an open and respectful relationship with Nigeria, based on dialogue, shared interests and joint decision-making.
According to him, the partnership reflects the principles of equality enshrined in the United Nations Charter, which both countries continue to support.
Economic Cooperation Continues to Expand
Fonbaustier highlighted growing business collaboration between French and Nigerian companies, saying recent investments demonstrate increasing confidence in Nigeria’s economy.
He pointed to partnerships involving Carrefour and HyperCity, Accor and Shoreline, as well as Canal+‘s acquisition of MultiChoice, noting that the deals are expected to strengthen commercial ties while expanding opportunities in the retail, hospitality and media sectors.
The ambassador also praised Nigerian businessman Abdul Samad Rabiu for supporting plans to establish a House of African Worlds in Paris, describing the initiative as a symbol of stronger cultural cooperation.
Food Security and Agriculture Remain Priorities
France also reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s agricultural sector through projects led by the French Development Agency (AFD).
Fonbaustier said the agency is investing in programmes aimed at improving food security, expanding agricultural value chains and increasing market access for farmers, particularly in northern Nigeria and across the ECOWAS region.
He added that the projects are designed to improve rural livelihoods while boosting regional food production.
Joint Efforts Against Terrorism
Security cooperation remains a major pillar of the France-Nigeria partnership.
The ambassador said both countries continue to work together to strengthen regional efforts against terrorism by supporting nations seeking to improve their security capabilities.
He stressed that lasting peace and stability in West Africa require a strong Nigeria working alongside a united regional bloc.
Shared Commitment to Democracy
Fonbaustier also reaffirmed France’s support for democratic governance, the rule of law and the protection of fundamental freedoms.
He said the French Embassy continues to back initiatives that promote economic inclusion for women, young people and persons living with disabilities, describing them as essential to sustainable development.
Macron’s Personal Connection to Nigeria
The envoy revealed that Macron’s relationship with Africa was influenced by time he spent in Nigeria as a student more than two decades ago.
According to him, the French leader has often acknowledged that his six-month stay in Nigeria helped shape his understanding of Africa and later influenced his diplomatic approach to the continent.
With preparations underway for the State visit, expectations are growing that the meeting between Presidents Macron and Tinubu will deepen cooperation in trade, investment, security, agriculture and regional development, further strengthening relations between Africa’s largest economy and one of Europe’s leading powers.