Nigerian President Tinubu began a three-day state visit to France on Thursday, aiming to strengthen bilateral ties. This visit is significant as it marks the first time in two decades that a sitting Nigerian president has visited the Champs-Élysées.
France is keen to renew its relations with African countries, particularly English-speaking ones, as its influence in the Sahel has waned following a series of military coups. This visit includes meetings at the “Franco-Nigerian Business Council” forum, designed to enhance economic cooperation and investment between the two nations.
Tinubu’s delegation includes high-ranking officials and prominent business figures, such as Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote. Relations between France and Africa are facing challenges, especially after Niger’s military junta banned the French NGO Acted in November.
France’s focus on strengthening ties with English-speaking African nations follows a decline in its influence in former French colonies in the Sahel. President Macron last visited Nigeria in 2018, and since then, he has toured other African countries, including Kenya, Ethiopia, and South Africa. Nigeria remains France’s top trading partner in Africa, followed by South Africa.
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