Tinubu and Kagame Discuss Africa’s Future During Paris Lunch

On December 28, 2025, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu engaged in a private lunch with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Paris. The meeting focused on significant global issues and the role of Africa in the evolving international landscape. Tinubu shared insights from the discussion through his verified social media account, stating, “This afternoon, I had a private lunch with H. E. President Paul Kagame of Rwanda to discuss the current state of world affairs and advancing Africa in an ever-changing global landscape.”

The lunch took place shortly after President Tinubu departed from Lagos, where he began his European visit. According to presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, this trip forms part of Tinubu’s end-of-year break and precedes his official participation in the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) Summit. The President is scheduled to travel to the United Arab Emirates following the discussions in Paris.

Focus on Sustainable Development

The ADSW Summit is a pivotal event that gathers leaders from various sectors to address sustainable development challenges. This year’s theme, “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,” aims to inspire action across innovation, finance, and community engagement, emphasizing how nations can progress confidently.

Invited by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, Tinubu’s participation underscores Nigeria’s commitment to global sustainability initiatives. The summit, taking place in early January, serves as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among governments, businesses, and civil society.

Strategic Discussions for Africa

The meeting between Tinubu and Kagame highlights the importance of collaboration among African leaders to navigate global challenges. As Africa’s influence grows on the world stage, discussions like these are essential for fostering unity and strategic partnerships among nations.

President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the ADSW Summit, bringing back insights that could benefit Nigeria and the broader African region. The outcomes of such discussions may play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s future in the context of global affairs.