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Sunday  Ehigiator

The French Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade, Economic Attractiveness and French Nationals Abroad, Olivier Becht, has expressed France’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Digital Ecosystem.

This is just as he inaugurated the ‘Food for Nations’ agri-food platform, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between France and Nigeria in the agri-food sector.

He made this commitment during his official visit to Nigeria yesterday, in celebration of the 10th anniversary of the ‘French Tech Mission’ at Impact Hub, in Lagos.

Speaking at the event, Becht said “The French Tech Mission is responsible for supporting the structuring and growth of the French start-up ecosystem in France and all around the world.

“The French Tech Lagos was officially launched last May to bring together key players from the French and Nigerian Tech ecosystems to network, share ideas, and explore new opportunities for collaboration and investment.”

The minister also pointed out the commitment of France to support the Nigerian digital ecosystem, “notably through the French Agency for Development (AFD) 100 million euro contribution to the Nigerian I-Dice Programme, which contributes to the development of digital and creative enterprises.”

He emphasised that France is a European powerhouse in entrepreneurship and innovation as “the OECD ranks France the most attractive country in Europe for startup founders and the third globally, behind Canada and the United States. Hence we want to attract but also cooperate with the best International talents in tech, of which Nigeria is part.”

In a similar event, the minister inaugurated the ‘Food for Nations’ agri-food platform, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between France and Nigeria in the agri-food sector.

According to him, the platform is aimed at “fostering cooperation and trade, and is a testament to the immense potential for growth, as far as agribusiness relationships between both countries are concerned.

“France, renowned for its rich culinary heritage and technical expertise in the agri-food industry, recognises the promising opportunities that lie in partnering with Nigeria.

“On the other hand, with 70 million underutilised arable lands, Nigeria stands as a beacon for local and foreign investors eager to enhance agricultural productivity.

“The ‘Food for Nations’ digital trade platform is lauded as a catalyst for developing robust bilateral relations in agriculture and agri-business.”

In an open invitation to Nigerian investors, Becht emphasised France’s eagerness to welcome agricultural investments.

“This collaboration reflects a commitment to strengthening ties and fostering mutual benefits in agriculture.

“A noteworthy development is the planned presence of a vibrant Nigerian Pavilion at the upcoming Paris International Agriculture Fair from February 24 to March 3, 2024. This pavilion will serve as a showcase for the diversity and potential of Nigerian agribusiness, further solidifying the collaboration between the two nations.”