By Gloria Drealomalicha
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has held talks with French businessman Vincent Bolloré in Paris over plans to deepen investments in Nigeria’s creative and digital economy.
The meeting took place on Friday as the President continued his working vacation in France, with discussions centred on expanding the operations of the Bolloré Group in Nigeria.
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the group confirmed plans to deepen the localisation of its operations in Nigeria, particularly in film, entertainment, fibre-optic infrastructure and related sectors.
Bolloré and his executives also outlined a series of new investments focused on Nigeria, describing the country as a potential spearhead of Africa’s cultural renaissance.
The discussions come amid the growing international reach of Nigerian entertainment, particularly Nollywood and Afrobeats, which have helped drive global interest in the country’s creative output.
Tinubu welcomed the proposed investments, saying Nigeria’s growing cultural influence presents an opportunity to bring more production, investment and employment opportunities into the country.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s focus on creating jobs for young Nigerians while expanding the country’s digital economy.
He said the Federal Government would continue to support investments that develop local talent, strengthen digital and creative infrastructure and position Nigeria as a base for businesses serving the African and wider global markets.
Tinubu also linked the discussions to his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, saying the government’s objective is to build an economy where Nigerian talent, enterprise and cultural influence translate into greater opportunities and improved livelihoods.
The Bolloré Group has significant interests in global media and entertainment. Its portfolio includes a 30.4 per cent stake in Canal+ and an 18.4 per cent stake in Universal Music Group, according to the group’s latest portfolio disclosure.
The meeting adds to Tinubu’s recent engagements in France, where he has continued discussions around investment and economic cooperation. He also met French President Emmanuel Macron for a private dinner at the Élysée Palace on Thursday.
The latest engagement comes as the administration continues to promote Nigeria as a destination for investment in technology, entertainment and other sectors of the digital economy.
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