Oke pledges stronger Nigeria-France ties, focus on security, trade

Nigeria’s Ambassador to France, Ayodele Oke

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.

By presenting the letter, he formally assumed his duties as Nigeria’s 17th Ambassador to France.

He said the new assignment would involve strengthening the bilateral partnership while advancing Nigeria’s interests and protecting its reputation abroad.

“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.

He said the ceremony underscored the need for both countries to deepen their partnership.

• Teenager loses hand picking up grenade in France school protests
• Economic diplomacy and Nigeria’s renewed international voice
• Mr President enjoyed himself, but at what cost?

“It underscored the compelling need to elevate and recalibrate the partnership between Nigeria and France,” he said.

According to him, the focus would include stronger cooperation in security, trade and investment, alongside a deliberate effort to project Nigeria’s interests and image.

“This means strengthening bilateral relations in security, trade, and investment, while upholding our values and reputation with clarity and credibility,” he said.

Oke 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.