In a pivotal dialogue at the Élysée Palace, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to prioritize education and security as pillars of Nigeria’s development. Addressing French President Emmanuel Macron, President Tinubu detailed plans to reduce the number of out-of-school children through innovative return-to-class initiatives and skills development programs.
“Motivation and skill acquisition will play a critical role in bridging the gap for those who have been out of school for a while,” President Tinubu stated. He emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to provide a supportive framework for school-age children to re-enter classrooms while tackling the challenges posed by insecurity in parts of the country.
President Tinubu also highlighted Nigeria’s progress in enhancing security using “kinetic” peace-building strategies. He noted that improved stability has facilitated a strong harvest this year, paving the way for further agricultural and economic development.
Accompanied by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, President Tinubu underscored to President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron that Nigeria’s long-term growth depends on building a well-educated and secure society.
President Macron, in turn, acknowledged the importance of education in unlocking Nigeria’s potential. Reflecting on his personal experiences during an internship in Nigeria, which included visits to Lagos and Kano, Macron pledged to deepen France’s partnership with Nigeria to support its developmental goals.
The French President and First Lady expressed gratitude to the Nigerian delegation for the State Visit, committing to elevate France-Nigeria relations to new heights.