If an African child is given a glass of milk in a class, there will be no problem in getting him to return and stay in school to learn - Tinubu addresses investors in France

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged increased foreign investment in Nigeria’s key sectors, including food security, solid minerals, energy, and education, during a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace in Paris. Speaking at a joint press conference, Tinubu encouraged French investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s agricultural and financial sectors, emphasizing the country’s investor-friendly environment. He noted, “The French-Nigeria Business Forum has made progress, but more efforts are needed, especially in food security. Investing in another country is inevitable.”

Tinubu highlighted the crucial role of private sector participation in achieving food security, stating, “We must establish a food security program that attracts private sector investment.” He also assured foreign investors of Nigeria’s economic stability, emphasizing that the country is well-positioned for Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) that benefits its citizens.

On education, Tinubu appealed to the French government to support training initiatives for Nigeria’s youth, stressing the importance of education for national development. He remarked, “If an African child receives a glass of milk in class, they are more likely to return and stay in school. Educated children are essential for our future.”

He also called attention to Nigeria’s untapped potential in solid minerals, advocating for measures to mitigate investment risks in the sector. Additionally, Tinubu urged investments in the blue economy, particularly fisheries, noting, “In Lagos, we have managed the Atlantic Ocean effectively. Fisheries present significant investment opportunities.”

French President Emmanuel Macron commended Tinubu’s leadership and expressed optimism about strengthening Nigeria-France relations. “We trust your ability, Mr. President, to enhance our partnership with Nigeria and extend its impact across the West African region, with ECOWAS playing a central role,” Macron stated. Macron also pledged to promote increased French investments, particularly in Nigeria’s solid minerals and creative industries.

Both leaders addressed global challenges, emphasizing the need for collective action on issues like food security, education, and terrorism. Macron remarked, “Global humanitarian problems can only be resolved through collaboration among governments.”