In an effort to combat the prevailing threat of terrorism in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu has advocated for enhanced cooperation with France during a meeting in Abuja on Friday.
The President, while commending the outgoing French Ambassador to Nigeria, Emmanuelle Batman, during a farewell meeting, applauded her dedicated efforts in fostering relations between Nigeria and France.
Tinubu urged Ambassador Blatmann to leverage her new role as the Director for Africa to champion the need for an “upgrade in technical cooperation” between the two countries.
He acknowledged her excellent work in promoting bilateral relations across various sectors such as the economy, trade, education, arts, and culture.
Expressing gratitude for her hard work, Tinubu stated, “It is a testament that you excelled in your assignment in our country. You will always be welcomed in Nigeria.
“On regional security, we want you to remind Paris at every opportunity that it is necessary to upgrade our technical cooperation in our joint efforts to defeat terrorism and counter violent extremism in the region.”
In response to the President’s speech, Ambassador Blatmann also reflected on her tenure while highlighting significant achievements. She included France’s status as one of the top foreign investors in Nigeria, with an investment stock exceeding 10 billion dollars.
She noted a remarkable increase in bilateral trade by 51 percent in 2021 and 2022.
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Additionally, France has become a substantial development partner with over 3 billion Euros invested over the last decade by AFD and PROPARCO, operating in 26 of Nigeria’s 36 states.
“I will definitely take away with me the energy and creativity of this country that will forever guide me and fuel my afro-optimism,” Ambassador Blatmann said, emphasizing the positive experiences during her time in Nigeria.
Recognizing Nigeria’s crucial role in regional security and stability, the outgoing ambassador stressed the close collaboration between France, Nigeria, and other key partners in promoting sustainable international peace, security, and development.
