President Bola Tinubu and his wife, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, will depart Abuja on Wednesday for a three-day state visit to France, following an invitation from President Emmanuel Macron.
The visit will focus on strengthening political, economic, and cultural relations between the two nations, with discussions aimed at fostering partnerships in key areas such as agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement and employment, innovation, and energy transition, according to a statement from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy.
On Thursday, President Tinubu and his wife will be received at the 350-year-old French military museum, Les Invalides, and at the Palais de l’Élysée by President Macron and his spouse, Brigitte, for initial ceremonies, which will then lead into bilateral meetings.
“During the visit, President Tinubu and President Macron will harmonise positions on stimulating more interest in exchange programmes that focus on skill development for youths and improving their competencies in automation, entrepreneurship, innovation, and leadership.
“Both leaders will participate in political and diplomatic meetings highlighting shared values on finance, solid minerals, trade and investments, and communication.
“They will also witness a session by the France-Nigeria Business Council, which oversees private sector participation in economic development.
“Brigitte and Nigeria’s First Lady will discuss the latter’s passion for empowering women, children, and the most vulnerable through the Renewed Hope Initiative,” the statement added.
Onanuga further stated that President Tinubu and his wife will be hosted at a state dinner by French President Macron before their departure.
He also mentioned that top government officials will accompany the President on the trip, though he did not disclose the names of those included in the delegation.