Trending 
Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed strong optimism about the outcomes of the 10th France-Nigeria Business Council Meeting, held on May 12, 2026, during the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya.
He noted that the results signal a new phase in the partnership, where the two nations are transitioning from dialogue to tangible economic actions.
With trade between Nigeria and France projected to reach $4.7 billion by 2025, and Nigeria remaining the leading destination for French investment in sub-Saharan Africa, President Tinubu emphasised the importance of this relationship in driving economic growth.
“This partnership is no longer about goodwill; it is about execution,” said Tinubu, calling for a focus on creating jobs, expanding industries, and improving infrastructure, ensuring that both nations benefit from the shared prosperity.
The meeting was marked by the participation of prominent figures, including Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, and France’s Minister Delegate, Nicolas Forissier. Leading businesses from both countries provided updates on ongoing projects and committed to further expanding their collaborations.
The signing of an agreement between Accor and Shoreline Group to establish Nigeria’s first national hotel platform was hailed as a major vote of confidence in Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism sectors.
“This is the kind of investment that creates jobs and builds Nigeria’s future,” President Tinubu affirmed.
At the summit, Tinubu commended Aigboje Aig Imoukhuede, Chairman of the France-Nigeria Business Council, for convening a highly successful session, noting that the presence of industry leaders such as Aliko Dangote, Abdul Samad Rabiu, and Tony Elumelu underscored growing confidence in Nigeria’s reforms.
In his closing remarks, President Tinubu reassured that his administration would continue to improve the business environment, making Nigeria a stable, competitive, and attractive investment destination.
“Nigeria is ready, France is engaged, and the private sector is driving us forward,” he concluded, highlighting the potential for further economic transformation.
