Tinubu’s France visit a boost for economic growth, says Gov Mbah

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to France as a major step toward enhancing bilateral relations and unlocking new opportunities for economic collaboration, particularly for subnational governments like Enugu State.

Speaking to reporters in Paris during the visit, Governor Mbah, a member of the Nigerian delegation, underscored the significance of such high-level diplomatic engagements in driving development at both national and state levels.

“This visit demonstrates the strong relationship between Nigeria and France. It’s not just about diplomacy; it’s also about creating opportunities for states like ours to explore trade, investment, and development partnerships,” he said.

Mbah highlighted ongoing collaborations between Enugu State and France’s development finance institution, Agence Française de Développement (AFD). 

He noted that the institution is already partnering with the state to expand its urban water scheme and expressed optimism about deepening this cooperation.

The governor also emphasized that the visit served as a platform to consolidate existing agreements and explore additional areas of collaboration, including agriculture. 

“For us in Enugu, this is beyond an exploratory mission. It is an opportunity to strengthen and build on partnerships that can directly impact our people through enhanced infrastructure and economic growth,” he stated.

Describing the state visit as “remarkable and consequential,” Mbah noted its historic significance as the first such visit in 24 years. 

He lauded the warm reception by French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, as well as the fruitful discussions that highlighted the enduring ties between Nigeria and France.

“This visit demonstrates the strong bilateral relationship between France and Nigeria. State visits like this further strengthen and build on such relationships, offering opportunities for both nations to explore new trade and investment prospects,” Mbah added.