Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos state has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening ties with France, particularly in areas such as agriculture, public transportation, and water transportation.

Mr Sanwo-Olu made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, at the Lagos House, Marina, on Wednesday.

The governor acknowledged the extensive support and wonderful relationship Lagos had enjoyed with the French Government, Embassy, and Consul-General over the past six years.

He expressed optimism that Mr Fonbaustier’s tenure would further enhance such a relationship.

As Lagos and France continue to explore areas of cooperation, Mr Sanwo-Olu emphasised the importance of nurturing this mutually beneficial relationship.

“Lagos is important to France and there are few things that we are doing together in agriculture, public transportation, water transportation.

“Therefore, we will fashion how to improve the mutually beneficial relationship, even as a subnational that we are, as compared to both sovereigns in France and Nigeria.

“With France being one of Nigeria’s key trading partners, this partnership is poised to yield significant economic benefits for both parties.

“This marks a significant step toward deepening the Lagos-France partnership, with far-reaching implications for the state’s economic development and Nigeria’s diplomatic relations with France,” he said.

In his response, Mr Fonbaustier commended Mr Sanwo-Olu, who he described as a driving force and an inspirational leader for his leadership in Lagos State.

He added that the governor is on the right track.

According to him, the visit to Lagos is to sustain what is on track in terms of deepening the relationship between Lagos and France.

He further added that it was to launch more ambitious projects because of the country’s belief in Lagos state. 

(NAN)