President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has returned to Abuja after a week of diplomatic engagements in France and South Africa. He arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport around 9:10 pm, where he was warmly received by senior government officials, including Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and Federal Capital Territory Minister, Chief Nyesom Wike.
Tinubu’s international trip began on November 27 when he flew to Paris to attend a three-day state visit at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. During his visit, President Tinubu and his wife, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, were hosted by the Macron family at the Élysée Palace. In a joint press conference, Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s successes in combating insecurity, emphasizing the progress made under his administration.
While in France, President Tinubu participated in several important engagements, including the signing of key agreements and memoranda of understanding between Nigeria and France. These agreements covered strategic cooperation, including security and economic matters. Additionally, Tinubu took part in the Nigeria-France Business Council, which aimed to strengthen trade and investment relations between the two countries.
On Sunday night, Tinubu departed France for South Africa, where he co-chaired the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town. President Tinubu and his South African counterpart, President Cyril Ramaphosa, led discussions focused on the leadership roles both nations must play in advancing Africa’s corporate interests. The BNC session underscored the importance of collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa in addressing continental challenges.
During his stay in South Africa, President Tinubu also attended the Nigeria-South Africa Business Forum, which aimed to foster stronger economic ties between the two countries. With his diplomatic visit now concluded, President Tinubu’s return marks the beginning of his focus on implementing the outcomes of these important international discussions.
