Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot confirmed that France Nigeria deepen tech ties through a new agreement aimed at joint innovation and regulation of emerging digital sectors. Speaking in Lagos at the CréationAfrica Forum, he declared that both nations will collaborate on building tools and frameworks that serve strategic autonomy and creative industries. He added that the relationship between France and Nigeria has never been as strong as it is now.
At the forum, Barrot noted that Nigeria and France will work together to foster technological development that addresses local challenges while protecting citizens’ interests. He said the partnership includes crafting regulation that does not inhibit innovation, but prevents the misuse of technology. He cited joint achievements ranging from creative content, gaming and XR to sustainable transport and infrastructure projects.
Moreover, the tech partnership will involve concrete projects such as the Omi Eko initiative in Lagos, which will deploy electric boats and decarbonised water transport infrastructure. The investment, supported by the European Union and France, signals that cooperation extends beyond digital ideas into real-world systems. Barrot said technology can underpin sustainable development and shared vision.
Furthermore, French companies and institutions have committed to supporting Nigerian creators and tech entrepreneurs. Barrot highlighted that over 80 Nigerian participants attended the forum representing film, design, digital production, games and webtoons from 42 African countries. The collaboration aims to match Nigerian dynamism in creative industries with French expertise in tech regulation and production.
In addition, both countries affirmed their commitment to multilateralism and international law as foundational to their technology agenda. They aim to develop home-grown tools for digital sovereignty rather than rely solely on external platforms. This emphasis on autonomy links to broader ambitions for Africa’s digital economy.
Also, Barrot recalled high-level exchanges between the two countries, including visits by President Macron to Nigeria and President Tinubu to France. These interactions laid the groundwork for the tech partnership and elevated bilateral relations into full partnership status. The symbolic dimension supports the strategic objectives now being executed.
Finally, as France Nigeria deepen tech relations, the agreement signals a new chapter in collaboration. With technology at its core, the partnership will span creative industries, regulation, infrastructure and sustainability. If both nations deliver on promise and invest in capacity, the impact could reach far beyond bilateral ties into Africa’s digital future.
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