Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, *Ayodele Oke*, has pledged to recalibrate the country’s relationship with France, placing *security, trade and investment* at the centre of his diplomatic agenda.
Oke disclosed his priorities after presenting his *Letters of Credence* to French President *Emmanuel Macron* at the Élysée Palace in Paris on Monday, October 5, 2026.
By presenting the letter, he formally assumed his duties as Nigeria’s *17th Ambassador to France*.
New Era For Nigeria-France Ties
According to the envoy, the ceremony underscored the need for both countries to deepen their partnership beyond traditional aid to strategic economic and security cooperation.
“I am pleased to inform you that on 5 October 2026, I presented my Letters of Credence to President Emmanuel Macron and formally assumed my duties as the 17th Ambassador of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the French Republic,” Oke said.
“It underscored the compelling need to elevate and recalibrate the partnership between Nigeria and France,” he added.
Security, Trade, Investment Top Agenda
Oke said the new assignment would involve strengthening the bilateral partnership while advancing Nigeria’s interests and protecting its reputation abroad.
“This means strengthening bilateral relations in security, trade, and investment, while upholding our values and reputation with clarity and credibility,” he said.
He added that his diplomatic mission would also seek to influence discussions affecting Nigeria’s interests, secure advantages for the country and protect its citizens.
“It also means shaping conversations, securing advantages, protecting citizens, and promoting Nigeria’s national image,” he said.
Oke’s appointment comes at a time when Nigeria is pushing for more foreign direct investment from Europe and seeking security cooperation with France to tackle insurgency and maritime security in the Gulf of Guinea.
France remains one of Nigeria’s key trade partners in the EU, with interests in energy, defence, and infrastructure.
