NIGERIA’S INFORMATION MINISTER WOOS FRENCH INVESTORS WITH PRO-BUSINESS REFORMS
Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has made a strong pitch to French investors, highlighting the country’s ambitious economic reforms and investor-friendly environment. In a statement, Idris emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to fostering deeper economic ties with France while speaking at the Nigeria Business Forum in Paris. Special Assistant to the Minister, Rabiu Ibrahim, noted that Idris commended longstanding French partners operating in Nigeria, including TotalEnergies, Lafarge, and Peugeot, for their contributions across key sectors. Idris said Nigeria is undergoing an “unprecedented journey of reform” driven by the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at unlocking the nation’s vast economic potential. “These historic reforms are building a more competitive, transparent, and investor-friendly economy,” he said. Idris highlighted key reforms, including unification of the foreign exchange regime, tax reforms, and digital reforms. He assured investors of a well-regulated economy, supported by strong institutions like the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission. Ibrahim added that Idris expressed confidence in Nigeria’s unique investment appeal, citing its large population and stable democratic governance. The Minister also discussed initiatives like the Renewed Hope Infrastructure Development Fund and the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation, which aim to catalyze private sector growth. He invited French companies to explore new opportunities in Nigeria’s livestock sector and projected increased Nigerian presence in France across creative industries and technology. “We must brace up for the future with commitment and optimism,” Idris said, echoing President Tinubu’s message.