President Bola Tinubu is scheduled to embark on his inaugural official overseas trip since assuming office as Nigeria’s new leader on May 29, 2023. According to Dele Alake, the Special Adviser on Special Duties, Communication, and Strategy, President Tinubu will be traveling to Paris, France, to join global leaders in a summit hosted by President Emmanuel Macron. The purpose of the summit is to evaluate and endorse a New Global Financial Pact that prioritizes support and investment for vulnerable countries, considering the devastating impact of climate change, the energy crisis, and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The summit, taking place at Palais Brongniart, will span two days and focus on several key objectives. These include restoring fiscal stability for countries facing immediate financial challenges, particularly those burdened by high levels of debt, as well as mobilizing innovative financing for nations vulnerable to climate change. Additionally, the summit aims to promote development in low-income countries and encourage investment in “green” infrastructure to facilitate the transition to sustainable energy in emerging and developing economies.
President Tinubu will be accompanied by members of the Presidential Policy Advisory Council and senior government officials during his visit. The President’s adviser, Dele Alake, stated that President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Saturday following the conclusion of the summit.
Meanwhile, on Monday, President Tinubu held a meeting with prominent African business tycoon Aliko Dangote and Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, at the State House in Abuja. The visit was part of the Gates Foundation’s commitment to collaborating closely with communities and leaders to support innovation, and to engage in discussions regarding global health and development with national and local leaders.