Dr Kola Adesina MFR, FNSE, the Group Managing Director, Sahara Power Group, a leading international energy (power, oil and gas) and infrastructure conglomerate has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to France as a major springboard to reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties and attracting investment in critical economic sectors.
Adesina who is also the Board Chairman of Ikeja Electric and AXA Mansard Insurance PLC had the opportunity to meet with the French President, Emmanuel Macron as part of the Nigerian delegation accompanying President Tinubu on a three-day state visit.
This visit significantly and specifically aims to broaden symbiotic relations across various sectors, including agriculture, security, education, health, youth engagement, innovation, energy transition, and strategic discussions on finance, trade, solid minerals, and investment.
The historic state visit comes as 2024 half-year foreign trade data highlights France as Nigeria’s sixth-largest trading partner, with total trade volumes at N4.4 trillion.
Notably, exports to France stood at N3.4 trillion, making it Nigeria’s largest single-country export destination and second only to Africa as a region.
In a high-profile meeting at the historic Palais des L’Elysée, President Tinubu and his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, explored avenues to strengthen their economic and diplomatic ties.
Macron, who has long sought a “renewal” between Paris and Africa, said his country will “continue to invest” in Nigeria, at a time when France’s influence on the continent is waning.
Reacting to this major milestone, Dr Adesina on his social media post seen by Veracity Desk (veracitydesk.com) said:
“I had the honor of being part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s delegation at the state dinner hosted by President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron during Nigeria’s State Visit to France.
“This memorable event highlighted the deepening partnership between our nations, the mutual respect, and shared aspirations that unite us. It was truly a privilege to witness such a remarkable display of diplomacy, which serves as a powerful reminder of its role in shaping a brighter and more collaborative future”
Adesina’s trajectory to the top is an enviable story of perseverance, focus, commitment and attention to details. He is a clear symbol of opportunity created, opportunity taken and opportunity adequately utilised.
An entrepreneur of international repute, the managing director of Sahara Group, former Chairman of Egbin Power Plc, and board chairman of Ikeja Electric, is a toast among the teeming number of Nigerian philanthropists. He basically stands out.
Adesina earned both his B.Sc degree in Insurance and M.Sc degree in Business from the prestigious University of Lagos. He furthered his education by obtaining executive programmes at Harvard Business School and The Wharton School of Advanced Management Programme.
