France, Nigeria Deepen Economic Ties Through AI, Agritech, Skills Development

France and Nigeria are exploring deeper collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI), agritech and skills development as both countries seek to strengthen economic ties and unlock new opportunities for sustainable growth.

Stakeholders made this known at the France-Nigeria Business and Human Capital Development Forum organised by the Lagos Business School (LBS) in Lagos. The forum, themed ‘Strengthening France-Nigeria Partnerships through Business, Innovation, Human Capital and Executive Education’, brought together policymakers, academics and business leaders to discuss areas of mutual interest.

Speaking at the event, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, described Nigeria as Africa’s largest economy and a major entrepreneurial hub, noting that France possesses globally recognised expertise in research, education and sustainable agriculture.

According to him, future collaboration between the two countries would focus on building robust ecosystems, empowering individuals, and strengthening institutions, with agriculture identified as a key sector for innovation, climate resilience, and digital transformation.

Fonbaustier stressed the importance of student mobility, academic exchanges and scientific cooperation in deepening bilateral relations.

“The future of France-Nigeria relations will not only be shaped through diplomacy, but also in laboratories, classrooms and partnerships,” he said.

Dean of Lagos Business School, Professor Olayinka David-West, described the forum as a significant platform for advancing cooperation between the two countries in business, innovation, human capital development and executive education.

She noted that the global landscape is being reshaped by rapid technological advancement, economic uncertainty and changing workforce dynamics, making strategic partnerships increasingly important.

David-West highlighted the long-standing relationship between France and Nigeria, saying the partnership holds immense potential for growth and sustainable development.

“France is recognised as a leading economy and innovation hub, while Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy. There is tremendous potential for both countries to work together for mutual prosperity,” she said.

Also speaking, Professor of Economics and Business Intelligence at LBS, Professor Bongo Adi, said the existing relationship between France and Nigeria remains strong and is set for further expansion through investments in people, technology and capacity development.

Adi identified five major factors driving the evolving partnership as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, energy transition, food security and demographic changes.

He said Nigeria enjoys a strategic advantage due to its large population, sizeable market, status as Africa’s technology hub and its role as a gateway to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The economist identified agribusiness and food systems, AI and digital innovation, human capital development, research collaboration, academic exchange, sustainable development and climate transition as critical areas for future cooperation between the two countries.