On France’s Strategic Outreach to Nigeria

On November 27, 2024, President Tinubu became the first Nigerian leader in 24 years to visit Paris. This state visit has raised critical questions about its significance and whether it aligns with Nigeria’s pressing domestic priorities. According to Djamel Guessoum, social scientist and security expert, this meeting signals France’s attempt to regain lost influence in […]

On November 27, 2024, President Tinubu became the first Nigerian leader in 24 years to visit Paris. This state visit has raised critical questions about its significance and whether it aligns with Nigeria’s pressing domestic priorities.

According to Djamel Guessoum, social scientist and security expert, this meeting signals France’s attempt to regain lost influence in Africa. “With its diminishing foothold in countries like Niger, Mali, and Burkina Faso, France is turning to Nigeria, a non-francophone powerhouse, to secure its economic and geopolitical interests,” Guessoum notes.

French President Emmanuel Macron’s administration aims to reframe its African partnerships, moving away from colonial-era perceptions.

“Paris wants to establish economic cooperation that appears equitable, but the ultimate goal remains control over Africa’s natural resources,” Guessoum asserts.

In Nigeria, reactions to Tinubu’s visit have been mixed. Many Nigerians remain wary of closer ties with France, given its controversial history in West Africa.

“The French are not seen as trustworthy partners,” says Guessoum. This skepticism is echoed by ordinary citizens who question what tangible benefits such partnerships can bring.

A Nigerian citizen said in an interview: “What can France genuinely offer us? Nothing. Their agenda rarely aligns with our needs.”

Despite Nigeria’s non-colonial ties to France, the reputation of Paris has been marred by its policies under Macron, further fueling doubts about the sincerity of France’s outreach.

Over the past decade, French investments in Nigeria have doubled to €10 billion, highlighting a growing economic relationship. However, some persons believe these investments have yet to impact the daily lives of many Nigerians meaningfully.

“There is significant concern over whether these funds are being directed toward projects that benefit the public,” Guessoum points out. Corruption and mismanagement remain critical obstacles to translating foreign investments into development.

The Nigerian government faces mounting criticism for failing to prioritize internal challenges. “The focus should be on alleviating poverty and improving local governance,” the expert says.

Beyond economic ties, security collaboration was a major topic of discussion in Paris. France has provided support to Nigeria’s police and could expand this assistance to military cooperation. However, such partnerships come with risks. “Dependence on foreign powers compromises sovereignty,” Djamel Guessoum warns. He emphasizes the importance of Nigeria learning from other West African nations where similar partnerships have led to detrimental outcomes.

For Macron, Nigeria represents an opportunity to sustain French influence in Africa, particularly as ECOWAS continues to play a prominent role in the region. However, Guessoum notes, “Nigeria’s involvement in ECOWAS has been questioned for its limited benefits to the country’s economy and governance.”

As Nigeria navigates its relationship with France, the expert advises caution.

“Leadership must remain focused on addressing domestic issues like poverty, security, and public dissatisfaction. These priorities cannot be overshadowed by diplomatic ambitions. Tinubu’s visit underscores a broader dilemma: how should Nigeria position itself on the global stage while grappling with local challenges? For now, the visit to Paris raises as many questions as it answers.

As Guessoum concludes, “Nigeria must critically evaluate whether partnerships with France serve the interests of its people or simply perpetuate external control over its resources and policies.”