After 16 years of operations in Nigeria, with investments totaling approximately N5.5 trillion (3.3 billion euros) across 57 projects, the Agence Française de Développement (AFD) Group has unveiled a renewed strategy for the next decade.
AFD’s Country Director in Nigeria, Xavier Muron, announced this during the group’s 15th-anniversary celebration in Abuja over the weekend. He stated, “This renewed partnership is based on three pillars: promoting low-carbon and resilient infrastructure, supporting youth employability and quality job development, and improving governance to enhance social cohesion and human rights.”
Muron added, “All future AFD projects will be socially inclusive and aligned with the Paris Agreement. AFD will collaborate closely with other development partners to better coordinate efforts and maximize benefits for Nigerians.”
He emphasized the pride of the AFD team in their 15-year journey with Nigerians, expressing enthusiasm and motivation for continued collaboration over the next 15 years and beyond.
Speaking at the event, Acting French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean-Francois Hasperue, reiterated France’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s green industrial vision, particularly in climate action, sustainable development, and job creation.
“We aim to create more stable jobs for the new generations entering the workforce. Nigeria is also rapidly emerging as a key player in the digital economy, and we are proud to see more French and Nigerian people engaging in joint projects,” Hasperue said.
Presidential Envoy on Climate Change, Ajuri Ngelale, acknowledged the transformative impact of the French Development Agency’s collaboration with Nigerian government institutions, particularly in climate action.
Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, also spoke at the event, recognizing France’s support in critical areas such as climate action, digital economy, creative economy, sports, and food security.
“We share a vision of rule of law, democracy, and inclusion for all. We appreciate the French government’s backing, especially as we undertake challenging yet essential macroeconomic reform programs,” Bagudu said.
