The French and Nigerian governments have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic cooperation, with a focus on infrastructure, renewable energy, and agriculture. This pledge was made during the 2024 French Week, held in Lagos under the theme “Enhancing France-Nigeria Relations Through Sustainable Investment and Partnership.”
Representing Vice President Kashim Shettima, Princess Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, Technical Adviser to the President on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), highlighted the significance of France as one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners. She noted that both countries are eager to expand cooperation, particularly in sectors that support sustainable growth.
“The theme of this week’s event underscores the unique opportunity to build a future based on sustainability, resilience, and inclusivity,” she stated. She emphasized that the longstanding partnership between the two nations is rooted in trade, cultural exchange, and diplomacy, with French companies like Total Energies and Lafarge Africa making vital contributions to Nigeria’s oil, gas, and cement sectors.
Vice President Shettima stressed the importance of sustainable investment in fostering growth, especially in the face of climate change and energy transition, calling for partnerships that bring mutual benefits. “We must adopt a sustainable investment mindset, acknowledging that the energy transition requires us to unite in partnerships that yield triple bottom-up results,” he stated.
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Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, President of the France-Nigeria Business Council and Chairman of Access Holdings Plc, echoed these sentiments. He described the annual French Week as a celebration of the robust partnership between the two nations, emphasizing the need to nurture and strengthen these ties. “Our partnership has become even more essential, not just for our countries but for regional and global progress,” he remarked.
Folashade Ambrose-Medebem, Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade & Investment, highlighted the role of French companies in Lagos-based energy transition efforts. She pointed to three key areas for sustainable investment—renewable energy, agribusiness, and digital innovation—which she believes can make a transformative impact on Nigeria’s economy. She noted that French expertise in renewable energy can help Nigeria meet its energy goals and bolster climate resilience.
French Consul General in Lagos, Laurent Favier, underscored France’s substantial role in Nigeria’s development, noting that over 100 French companies have created more than 16,000 jobs in the country. “Nigeria represents 60 percent of our investment in West Africa, and to date, France has invested over €10 billion in Nigeria,” Favier stated, adding that French companies operate across diverse sectors, including oil and gas, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, renewable energy, and microfinance.
The event highlighted the mutual benefits of the France-Nigeria partnership and underscored both countries’ commitment to advancing sustainable development in sectors crucial to economic and social progress.
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