President Bola Tinubu has returned to Abuja following his visits to France and South Africa. His aircraft, an Airbus A330, landed at the Presidential Wing of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 9:10 pm on December 2, 2024.

The visit to France, from November 27 to December 1, marked a three-day state trip at the invitation of French President Emmanuel Macron. During their meeting at the Palais des Elysée in Paris, the two leaders signed agreements to strengthen collaboration on critical infrastructure development and ensure sustainable agriculture and food security.

Significant milestones during the visit included the signing of an agreement between the United Bank for Africa Group, represented by Chairman Tony Elumelu, and France’s Minister of Economy, Finance, and Industry, Antoine Armand. This agreement permits UBA to commence operations in Paris. Zenith Bank also launched its services in France during Tinubu’s stay.

On December 2, Tinubu proceeded to South Africa, where he co-chaired the 11th Bi-National Commission alongside South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. The Commission, held in Cape Town, emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation between the two nations. Tinubu noted that Nigeria and South Africa share a shared destiny and must focus on practical implementation of agreements to benefit the African continent.

Tinubu also advocated for Nigeria’s membership in the G20, an influential group of advanced and emerging economies. In response, Ramaphosa expressed strong support for Nigeria’s bid and called for the inclusion of other African countries in the G20, citing the continent’s growing influence.

The visit also witnessed the operationalization of the Joint Ministerial Advisory Council on Industry, Trade, and Investment, aimed at fostering economic cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa.

President Tinubu was welcomed back in Abuja by key government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

The return marks Tinubu’s 33rd international trip since assuming office 18 months ago. In total, the president has spent 139 days abroad, visited 17 countries, and logged approximately 304 flight hours. Countries visited include France (five times), the United Kingdom (four times), the United States, the United Arab Emirates, Brazil, India, Germany, and Qatar, among others.