French President Emmanuel Macron warmly received Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Thursday at the historic Invalides memorial complex in Paris, marking the first official state visit by a Nigerian leader in over 20 years.
The ceremony began with the national anthems of both countries playing in the courtyard of the iconic Paris landmark. The visit aims to strengthen economic ties between France and Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation. As part of the reception, President Tinubu inspected a guard of honor.
Macron has been advocating for a renewed relationship between France and Africa since his election in 2017, amid shifting dynamics that have reduced France’s influence on the continent. His office described the visit as an opportunity to enhance the already vibrant partnership between France and Nigeria.
President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to Macron on his X account, saying:
“I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my friend, President Macron @EmmanuelMacron , for the gracious welcome this splendid morning at the start of my state visit to France,” Tinub wrote on his X handle.
“Nigeria and France have a rich history of collaboration across various sectors. I am eager to engage in our bilateral discussions and explore new avenues for partnership that can benefit both nations.”
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my friend, President Macron @EmmanuelMacron, for the gracious welcome this splendid morning at the start of my state visit to France.
Nigeria and France have a rich history of collaboration across various sectors. I am eager to… pic.twitter.com/bnsrgqiy4S
— Bola Ahmed Tinubu (@officialABAT) November 28, 2024