From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
In Paris on Thursday, President Bola Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritizing education for Nigerian children and reducing the number of out-of-school youth. He outlined plans to implement innovative programs aimed at bringing children back to the classroom, alongside skill-development initiatives to equip them for the future.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu made the remarks during a dialogue with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Palais des Élysée.
The Nigerian leader stressed the importance of motivation and skill development in his government’s ongoing efforts to create a framework that encourages school-age children to return to school.
“In order to bridge the gap for those who are of age but have been out of school for a while, we will encourage skill development,” President Tinubu said.
He further emphasized to President Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron—who were accompanied by Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu—that a highly educated population is crucial for Nigeria’s development.
“The insecurity in some parts of the country makes it difficult for children to return to school, but we are gradually re-populating the classrooms. Skills development is necessary to bridge these gaps,” the President explained.
President Tinubu also highlighted the progress made in improving security across Nigeria through “kinetic” strategies as part of the peace-building process. He expressed confidence that, with continued efforts, Nigeria would achieve greater stability.
“We had a good harvest this year, and as more farmers are able to return to the farms, we will see even greater stability in harvests and food supply,” he said.
In response, President Macron recognized Nigeria’s significant growth potential and the importance of investing in educational initiatives. He shared his personal experiences from his six-month internship at the French Embassy in Nigeria, which included visits to Lagos and Kano.
President Macron and his wife, Brigitte, expressed their appreciation to President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for their state visit and promised to strengthen the France-Nigeria partnership.