President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to embark on a strategic three-nation trip to Kenya, Rwanda, and France, beginning on May 2, 2026. The Nigerian leader will depart Abuja for France before proceeding to Nairobi, Kenya, to attend the Africa-France Summit scheduled for May 11-12, 2026.
Summit Details and Objectives
The Africa-France Summit, themed "Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth," is co-chaired by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto. According to a statement from Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu's participation underscores Nigeria's commitment to strengthening strategic partnerships with African nations and France. The summit will focus on energy transition, green industrialization, digital transformation, restructuring global financing architecture, and climate action.
Following the summit in Nairobi, President Tinubu will travel to Kigali, Rwanda, to attend the annual Africa CEO Forum, themed "Scale or Fail," taking place from May 14 to 15. At both summits, Tinubu will deliver statements highlighting his administration's reforms to position Nigeria as a prime destination for investment and growth. He will also hold high-level meetings with top global and African business leaders.
Accompanying Officials and Return
The president will be accompanied by some ministers and senior aides. He is expected to return to Nigeria at the conclusion of the Rwanda summit.
Public Reactions
The announcement has sparked mixed reactions from Nigerians. Some questioned the necessity of frequent trips to France, while others expressed concerns about the country's debt and governance. One user, @Chiefobi_10, commented, "Tinubu and France... one day breeze go blow, fowl nyash go open." Another, @waziri_adeniyi, asked, "France again? To do what exactly? To attend to his health again? To see his money keeper, Chagouri?"
@KACHI8419 questioned, "Wetin this man dey always go France go do? Which kind of one chance Nigerians go enter like this?" @Youthinprocess added, "Peace isn't found in French summits; it's built on our soil. If we keep flying over the fire, we'll soon have no home to return to."
Tinubu Defends Loans and Addresses Jos Killings
In related news, President Tinubu has defended borrowing as necessary for national development amid rising public debt concerns. He also approved N2 billion for the Angwa Rukuba attack in Jos North LGA of Plateau State, following a meeting with stakeholders. Governor Caleb Mutfwang and traditional ruler Da Jacob Gyang Buba called for peacebuilding and enhanced security measures, including CCTV and increased military presence.
