Catherine Colonna, French Minister of Foreign Affairs, recently made a whirlwind visit to Nigeria. Although its presence lasted only one day, this meeting perhaps marks the start of a new French approach to Africa, focused on business rather than a military presence. During her visit to Abuja, Catherine Colonna discussed security and terrorism issues with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, but her main focus was the economy. She thus announced the upcoming restitution of ill-gotten assets in Nigeria.
One of the highlights of this visit was the announcement of the restitution of ill-gotten assets to Nigeria. Catherine Colonna informed Head of State Bola Tinubu of France’s decision to return part of the funds looted by former Nigerian President General Abacha and his family. These funds, worth approximately $150 million, had been frozen in France since 2021. However, after the legal procedures were finalized, France decided to return this money to Nigeria through donations, in agreement with the priorities of the Nigerian government. This announcement constitutes a significant gesture of solidarity with the Nigerian people, who were victims of this dispossession.
In addition to this restitution, Catherine Colonna also underlined the importance of economic exchanges between France and Nigeria. These exchanges have doubled over the last ten years and the minister wishes to continue to develop this economic relationship. In particular, it signed a partnership aimed at supporting the Nigerian digital and creative industries, with an investment of 116 million euros. In addition, she encourages Nigerian companies to invest in France and wishes to make it easier to obtain visas for Nigerian students wishing to come and study in her country. This desire to strengthen economic ties between the two countries demonstrates the importance given to opportunities for mutual growth.
It is interesting to note that during her discussion with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Catherine Colonna addressed the issue of insecurity and terrorism in West Africa. However, she stressed that Africa is vast and diverse, and that the Sahel does not represent the entire reality of the continent. She therefore expressed optimism about more positive situations beyond the Sahel and the need to focus on these aspects rather than crises.
In conclusion, Catherine Colonna’s visit to Nigeria marks a turning point in relations between France and Africa. By placing emphasis on business and announcing the restitution of ill-gotten gains, France shows its desire to strengthen economic ties and support Nigeria’s development. This new approach, focused on economic cooperation rather than military presence, paves the way for a more balanced and beneficial collaboration for both countries.