President Bola Tinubu pitched Nigeria's blue economy to global investors during his visit to Kenya on Tuesday. He spoke at the Africa/France summit, a major gathering hosted jointly by French President Emmanuel Macron and Kenyan President William Ruto.
More than 30 African nations sent leaders and officials to the conference. Tinubu used the platform to urge stronger economic ties across the continent focused on shared prosperity.
He wasn't alone in calling for reform. UN Secretary-General António Guterres and African Union Commission Chair Mahamoud Ali Youssouf also demanded greater credit access for African nations and businesses.
On the sidelines, Tinubu held separate meetings with two important figures. Madagascar's President Michael Randrianirina sat down with him, as did Confederation of African Football President Patrice Motsepe.
During his talk with Motsepe, Tinubu signaled Nigeria's interest. He told the CAF president that Nigeria stands ready to host the 2026 CAF awards.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed these bilateral meetings took place. He said they were scheduled between summit sessions.
Tinubu's speech centered on ocean resources and maritime development. He emphasized that Africa has long overlooked its blue economy potential due to security concerns.
Nigeria has made real progress in recent years, he noted. Improved governance and infrastructure now make maritime investment attractive and viable.
He announced a concrete commitment from Nigeria's government. The country will share its Deep Blue Project maritime intelligence system with other Gulf of Guinea nations willing to participate.
"Maritime sovereignty does not repel investment — it attracts it," Tinubu declared. He stressed that secure shipping lanes and predictable regulations unlock private capital.
Nigeria plans to modernize its ports with climate considerations in mind. The country is also pushing digital transformation across its maritime sector.
According to Tinubu, maritime security and ocean governance form the foundation of Africa's blue economy future. He called this a "generational duty" for the continent.
He added: "The oceans have no duplicate as a common heritage of mankind." Moving from what he called "sea blindness" to ocean sovereignty isn't optional for Africa.
France's government used the summit to push for new economic relationships. They want Africa treated as an equal partner, not a subordinate.
African leaders hammered home a single message repeatedly. They need better access to credit to fund major projects and drive growth.
On immigration, Tinubu offered Nigeria's perspective on global policy. He argued that addressing root causes in origin countries matters most for security.
Expanding safe, legal pathways for migration must be part of the solution, he maintained. Countries can't ignore immigration issues while ignoring what drives people to leave home.
All participants endorsed the Nairobi Declaration at summit's end. Nigeria affirmed its commitment to maritime sovereignty as essential for continental development.
