French President Emmanuel Macron has restated France’s commitment to standing with Nigeria as the country grapples with worsening insecurity, especially the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups in the northern region.
Macron revealed that he had spoken with President Bola Tinubu and pledged that France would deepen cooperation with Nigerian authorities while providing greater support for communities affected by escalating violence. He stressed that the global community must not look away from Nigeria’s struggles.
“No one can remain a bystander,” Macron declared in a post on X on Sunday, underscoring the urgency of coordinated international action.
Macron added that he spoke directly with President Tinubu, saying: “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.”
His statement comes at a time when Nigeria is experiencing rising attacks, mass kidnappings, and widespread tension across several states. On November 26, President Tinubu declared a nationwide security emergency in response to the growing wave of violence. He also approved additional recruitment into the Nigerian Armed Forces and the police force to boost security presence across the country.
The past weeks have been marked by brutal incidents, including killings in Kebbi and Kwara states, alongside the abduction of more than 300 students from the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi State, and St. Mary’s Catholic School in Papiri, Niger State. Although some of the abducted students have been released or found a way to escape, many remain in captivity, deepening national anxiety and intensifying calls for stronger security intervention.
Macron’s remarks add to the growing international attention on Nigeria’s security woes, as global partners continue to assess the country’s needs and explore areas of collaboration. His pledge of support reflects France’s longstanding engagement with West African security matters and signals renewed partnership efforts amid increasing instability.
What You Should Know
France has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria amid intensifying insecurity nationwide.
President Emmanuel Macron, after speaking with President Bola Tinubu, promised deeper cooperation and expanded assistance to communities facing terrorist threats, especially in the northern region.
His statement follows President Tinubu’s declaration of a nationwide security emergency and efforts to reinforce the military and police. Recent violence, including killings in several states and mass student abductions in Kebbi and Niger, has heightened public concern.
Macron emphasized that global partners must take action, urging countries not to remain passive as Nigeria works to address escalating security challenges.
