President Macron pledges French support for Nigeria in the fight against terrorism

PRESIDENT Emmanuel Macron of France has pledged to support Nigeria combat the growing insecurity in the country particularly with regards to the fight against Boko Haram and other insurgents operating in the Lake Chad Basin.

Yesterday, President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in France for a bilateral summit with President Macron, where among other things they discussed insecurity and French investment in Africa. At the meeting, President Macron his steadfast support for the fight against insecurity across the entire West African Sahel region.

Mallam Garba Shehu, President Buhari's spokesman, said the French leader made it clear that his country will absolutely be there on the side of Nigeria and it is willing to support with everything to assist to overcome the security threats. He added that President Macron also promised to help Nigeria in confronting the challenges of Covid-19 vaccines.

“President Buhari outlined the challenges all round facing the country as well as its neighbours and spoke about the steps he has taken to reignite a response to the situation. This included the appointment of the new service chiefs,” Mallam Shehu added.

In response, President Buhari said Nigeria was willing to work with France and all international partners to overcome the security challenges. It is not yet clear if France pledged to supply any equipment, training or funds to assist Nigeria.