By Is’haq Ahmed, Abuja
Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening collaboration with France for strategic partnerships across key sectors.
The Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, stated this during a meeting in Abuja with the visiting French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean Barrot, who was on a bilateral mission to Nigeria.
Ambassador Tuggar highlighted the strong ties between the two nations, noting ongoing cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and security.
“We are doing a lot with France in the areas of technology, artificial intelligence, and digital innovation, which have created thousands of job opportunities through training young Nigerians,” he said.
He emphasised that President Bola Tinubu had prioritised job creation and food security as central pillars of his administration.
Tuggar also expressed appreciation for France’s continued support on the global stage and reiterated Nigeria’s call for French backing in its bid to join the G20 and obtain a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
In his remarks, Minister Barrot said France remains committed to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria, describing the relationship as “central for France.”
He explained that the two countries would continue regular engagements to review progress, address challenges, and identify new areas of collaboration.
Barrot noted that France is supporting several key projects in Nigeria, including a water transportation initiative in Lagos State.
He also reaffirmed France’s commitment to multilateralism, international law, and support for greater African representation on the UN Security Council.
On security, Barrot said France is prepared to assist Nigeria in countering terrorism, through training or equipment support, based on Nigeria’s identified needs.
He added that France also looks forward to expanding cultural cooperation, particularly in film and related creative industries.