President Tinubu and Macron Share Private Working Lunch at Élysée Palace Amid Diplomatic Push
President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria met with French President Emmanuel Macron for a private working lunch at the iconic Élysée Palace in Paris on September 10, 2025. The intimate gathering underscores strengthening bilateral ties during Tinubu’s ongoing European working vacation, focusing on economic collaboration and regional stability.
The Private Lunch: A Key Moment in Tinubu’s European Tour
Tinubu, on a 10-day working vacation that began on September 4, arrived in France as part of his annual leave schedule, blending rest with diplomacy before heading to the United Kingdom. The lunch, held at the presidential residence, was described as a “working private” session, allowing the leaders to discuss pressing issues away from formal ceremonies.
Photos shared by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, captured the two leaders in conversation, highlighting the cordial atmosphere. Onanuga posted on X: “President Bola Tinubu, with his French counterpart, President Emmanuel Macron, during a working private lunch at the Élysée Palace, Paris. Wednesday, September 10, 2025.” This marks another chapter in the leaders’ rapport, following prior engagements that have elevated Nigeria-France relations.
Background: Tinubu’s Trip and Nigeria-France Dynamics
Tinubu’s European itinerary comes amid Nigeria’s economic reforms, including the recent signing of the Nigeria Tax Act (NTA), Nigeria Tax Administration Act (NTAA), and related legislation on June 26, 2025. These aim to simplify taxation, support small businesses, attract foreign investment, and diversify revenue from oil, aligning with Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.”
France, Nigeria’s top trading partner in sub-Saharan Africa, views the country as pivotal in its African policy shift toward English-speaking nations. Past meetings, such as a 2024 state visit, emphasized agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement, innovation, and energy transition. Macron has welcomed such dialogues, greeting Tinubu in Nigerian Pidgin English during previous encounters to underscore cultural bonds.
While some critics, like activist Omoyele Sowore, have speculated on medical aspects to the trip, the presidency maintains it’s official annual leave with diplomatic components. Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria post-UK, ahead of key domestic events.
Potential Discussion Topics and Strategic Implications
Though details remain private, the lunch likely covered trade, investment, and security—core to Nigeria-France partnerships. France continues to invest in Nigeria, with Macron affirming commitments in finance, solid minerals, and infrastructure. Tinubu has positioned Nigeria as “open for business,” seeking collaborations to boost fiscal stability.
For U.S. audiences with interests in African affairs—through trade, diaspora ties, or energy— this meeting signals opportunities in diversified markets. Nigeria’s reforms could enhance U.S.-Nigeria relations via frameworks like AGOA, while France’s pivot influences transatlantic dynamics amid global competition from China and Russia.
Economically, stronger Nigeria-France links may spur investments in renewable energy and tech, benefiting U.S. firms operating in both regions. Politically, it highlights Africa’s growing geopolitical weight, with Tinubu as ECOWAS chair advocating stability.
Public and Official Reactions
Reactions have been positive, with Nigerian media praising the proactive diplomacy. On X and forums like Nairaland, users noted the meeting’s timing during Tinubu’s vacation, viewing it as effective multitasking. French outlets have not yet commented extensively, but the Élysée agenda lists it as a routine bilateral engagement.
No controversies emerged, though Sowore’s earlier posts questioned the trip’s nature, countered by official clarifications. Overall, the event reinforces Tinubu’s international outreach.
Conclusion: Building Bridges for Mutual Prosperity
The private working lunch between Presidents Tinubu and Macron at the Élysée Palace exemplifies quiet diplomacy driving tangible gains. As Tinubu wraps his European tour, this engagement promises deepened Nigeria-France cooperation, fostering investment and stability.
Looking ahead, expect announcements on joint ventures in key sectors, positioning Nigeria as a hub for African growth. For global stakeholders, it’s a reminder of Africa’s pivotal role in 2025’s economic landscape.