French President Emmanuel Macron reaffirmed France’s support for Nigeria as the country grapples with escalating security challenges, particularly persistent terrorist attacks in its northern regions.
Macron disclosed that he spoke with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, pledging to deepen cooperation with Nigerian authorities and increase assistance to communities affected by violence. He emphasized that global partners must also intensify their engagement.
“No one can remain a bystander,” Macron said in a post on X on Sunday, highlighting the urgent need for collective action.
“I spoke with President Tinubu of Nigeria, @officialABAT. I conveyed France’s solidarity in the face of the various security challenges, particularly the terrorist threat in the North. At his request, we will strengthen our partnership with the authorities and our support for the affected populations. We call on all our partners to step up their engagement. No one can remain a spectator,” he stated.
The statement comes after President Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency on November 26, amid rising attacks and mass abductions. He also ordered additional recruitment into the Nigerian Armed Forces and police force.
In recent weeks, insecurity has surged across the country, including killings in Kebbi and Kwara states and the abduction of more than 300 students from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi, and St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. While some students have been released or escaped, many remain in captivity.
