France and Nigeria Forge a Fresh Alliance Amid Africa’s Shifting Loyalties
As military coups and evolving alliances reshape Africa’s geopolitical landscape, France faces a stark reality: its influence across the continent is waning. Countries that once leaned on their former colonial ruler are pivoting away, with relations between France and much of Africa growing increasingly strained. Yet, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to France marks a potential turning point—a beacon of hope for President Emmanuel Macron’s vision of rekindling ties with Africa.
A Historic Opportunity
Tinubu’s visit, the first by a Nigerian head of state to France since 2000, has been heralded as a pivotal moment to strengthen Franco-Nigerian relations. The Élysée Palace described the visit as an opportunity to “deepen the already dynamic relationship” between the two nations. With Nigeria standing as Africa’s leading oil producer and a cultural powerhouse thanks to its thriving Nollywood film industry, this partnership carries significant economic and diplomatic weight.
However, the stakes are high. Insecurity and corruption continue to cast a long shadow over Nigeria, leaving more than half of its population—129 million people—below the poverty line. Tinubu’s focus on fostering economic partnerships during this visit aligns with Nigeria’s urgent need for foreign investment to spur development and tackle systemic challenges.
Economic Synergy in Focus
A highlight of the state visit is Tinubu’s participation in the Franco-Nigerian Business Council, a platform designed to bolster economic collaboration. Macron’s outreach to English-speaking African nations reflects a strategic pivot for France, which has faced setbacks in Francophone Africa, where nations like Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso have severed ties with Paris and turned toward Russia.
Nigeria, on the other hand, remains France’s top trading partner in Africa—a relationship bolstered by shared economic ambitions. Tinubu’s message to France’s ambassador in November was clear: “We have an open-door policy, and we want your investors to take advantage of it.” Macron, whom Tinubu regards as a “good friend,” is poised to capitalize on this sentiment during high-level discussions with business leaders, including Nigerian billionaire Aliko Dangote.
The Shifting Influence of France in Africa
France’s waning clout in Francophone Africa underscores the urgency of its strategy in English-speaking countries. Togolese economist Kako Nubukpo highlighted this shift, noting that the crises in the Sahel have accelerated France’s pivot to nations like Nigeria and South Africa.
The Franco-Nigerian Business Council, established during Macron’s 2018 visit to Nigeria, has been instrumental in fostering mutual investment opportunities. This week’s meeting promises to unveil significant contracts and agreements aimed at solidifying the partnership.
A Partnership of Equals
For Tinubu, the visit represents more than economic collaboration—it’s about redefining the relationship between France and Nigeria as a partnership of equals. With Nigeria’s history as a beacon of independence and self-determination in Africa, Tinubu has made it clear that his country seeks collaboration, not condescension, from Western powers.
As Macron hosts Tinubu and his delegation, the visit embodies France’s evolving approach to Africa: pragmatic, forward-looking, and focused on mutual respect. For both nations, it’s a chance to forge a partnership that transcends colonial history, embracing a future defined by shared prosperity.
Looking ahead, France’s Africa strategy includes strengthening ties with East African nations such as Kenya and Zambia, with the 2026 Africa-France Summit set to spotlight these emerging partnerships. For now, Tinubu’s visit signals a step toward revitalizing a critical relationship in the heart of Africa.
