President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Friday evening returned to Lagos following a series of international engagements that took him to France, Kenya, and Rwanda, where discussions focused heavily on economic reforms, investment opportunities, and Africa's future development.
Arrival in Lagos
The President arrived at the Presidential Wing of the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Ikeja, at about 7:12 pm and was received by top government officials, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Governor Femi Hamzat, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly Mudashiru Obasa, alongside other dignitaries.
Engagements in France
During his visit to France, President Tinubu met with international investors and business leaders, where he defended his administration's economic reform policies, stressing the need for transparency, fiscal discipline, and long-term economic stability in Nigeria.
Africa Forward Summit in Kenya
The President also attended the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, Kenya, an event co-hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto. At the summit, Tinubu advocated reforms in the global financial system and called for stronger economic collaboration among African nations to unlock the continent's full economic potential. He further highlighted the importance of the blue economy to Africa's future growth, while expressing Nigeria's willingness to support Gulf of Guinea nations by sharing maritime intelligence infrastructure aimed at improving regional security and economic cooperation.
While in Nairobi, the Nigerian leader held a bilateral meeting with Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina, discussing areas of mutual interest and continental partnerships.
Africa CEO Forum in Rwanda
The President's diplomatic tour also took him to Kigali, Rwanda, where he participated in the Africa CEO Forum alongside African leaders, global investors, and chief executives from multinational companies. Discussions at the forum centered on accelerating Africa's economic transformation through regional integration, large-scale investments, and cross-border partnerships.
President Tinubu also met with Rwandan President Paul Kagame and held separate engagements with international business groups and financial institutions, including the International Finance Corporation (IFC), APM Terminals, and the Winme Group. According to officials, the meetings produced positive outcomes expected to strengthen investment relations and support Nigeria's ongoing economic agenda.
Beyond the meetings, the President participated in strategic panel sessions where he spoke extensively about his administration's reform programmes and economic direction.
Upcoming APC Primaries
Following his return to Lagos, President Tinubu is expected to take part in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections scheduled to begin on Saturday. Ahead of the exercise, the President had urged party members and aspirants to maintain peace and conduct themselves with sportsmanship in the interest of the party and the country.
