- Nigeria, France Deepen Ties to Boost Africa’s Creative Industry and Digital Economy
- Barrot emphasized a shared vision for technological growth rooted in innovation
- He noted that the decision to host this year’s edition in Lagos followed President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu during their meeting in France last year
Nigeria and France have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration in Africa’s creative and digital economy, with new initiatives aimed at supporting innovation, talent development, and sustainable partnerships across the continent.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the announcement was made by the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, during the second edition of the Forum Création Africa, held in Lagos between Thursday and Saturday, October 18, 2025.
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Barrot described the forum as the largest gathering dedicated to creative and cultural industries on the African continent, attracting over 1,000 participants from 42 countries, including 80 creators from Nigeria.
“France is at the forefront of creative and cultural industries in Europe, while Nigeria leads the same space in Africa. There is a lot we can achieve together by bringing our creators, entrepreneurs, and innovators under one roof,” Barrot said.
He noted that the decision to host this year’s edition in Lagos followed President Emmanuel Macron’s commitment to President Bola Tinubu during their meeting in France last year.
Barrot highlighted growing diplomatic and economic ties between both nations, describing the Nigeria–France relationship as “the most intense it has ever been.” He cited examples of cooperation such as:
The Omi Eko project, a €410 million initiative with the European Union to develop decarbonized water transport in Lagos.
The renovation of a French school in Lagos.
France’s support for the largest-ever exhibition on Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti, showcased in Paris and now in Lagos.
“From culture to economy to infrastructure, our cooperation is accelerating and delivering tangible results,” he added.
Speaking on the digital economy, Barrot emphasized a shared vision for technological growth rooted in innovation, responsible regulation, and strategic autonomy.
He also confirmed ongoing collaboration with Kenya ahead of the Africa Forward Summit, scheduled for May 2026 in Nairobi, which will focus on solutions to Africa’s pressing challenges including energy, climate change, agriculture, and digital transformation.
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