Tinubu Calls for More Investment in Nigeria’s Creative Economy after Paris Talks

ABUJA, Sept 18 – President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday announced a fresh push for investment in Nigeria’s creative and digital economy after a high‑level meeting with Vincent Bolloré, chairman of the Bolloré Group, in Paris. In a statement released by the State House, Tinubu said the talks focused on expanding the French conglomerate’s stakes in film, entertainment, fibre‑optic infrastructure and other digital projects across the country.

The president highlighted that the growing global influence of Nigerian music, film, fashion and culture offers a huge opportunity to retain more value at home. “I want more of the value created by Nigerian talent to remain in Nigeria,” Tinubu said, adding that his administration’s reforms are laying the groundwork for such investments.

Companies linked to the Bolloré Group – notably Canal+, MultiChoice and Universal Music – were cited as keen to deepen activities in Nigeria. Tinubu urged them to increase local production, invest in home‑grown talent and create jobs for the nation’s youth. He linked the drive to his Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to boost employment and diversify the economy beyond oil.

The State House confirmed that the Bolloré Group has indeed pledged to localise more of its operations, promising to set up new production hubs, expand broadband rollout and support digital content platforms. While exact figures were not disclosed, the president hinted that the partnership could generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs within the next two years.

Industry observers welcomed the development, noting that Nigeria’s Nollywood already produces more than 2,500 titles a year and that a stronger partnership with global players could lift standards and open up new export markets. Analysts also pointed out that a robust fibre‑optic network would improve streaming quality, benefiting both creators and consumers.

Tinubu’s remarks came alongside his official post on X, where he thanked the French delegation for their interest and reiterated his commitment to ensuring that foreign capital translates into real opportunities for Nigerians. The president warned that without sustained investment, the country risks losing its creative edge to other African markets.

The meeting in Paris marks the latest in a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at attracting foreign direct investment into non‑oil sectors. Tinubu’s call for more localisation and higher value‑addition aligns with broader government efforts to modernise infrastructure and support the digital economy.

If the Bolloré Group follows through on its promises, Nigeria could see a significant boost in high‑skill employment, increased tax revenues and a stronger position for its creative exports on the global stage. The president urged other international investors to take note and join the effort to build a vibrant, home‑grown creative ecosystem.

The statement concludes with a reminder that the administration will continue to monitor progress and hold partners accountable, ensuring that the promised benefits reach ordinary Nigerians.

**Quotes**
“Today in Paris, I met with Vincent Bolloré of Bolloré Group, and his executives for extensive discussions on expanding their investments in Nigeria across film, entertainment, fibre optics and the digital economy.”
“I want more of the value created by Nigerian talent to remain in Nigeria.”
“Our reforms are creating the conditions for investment and growth. My responsibility is to ensure that these investments translate into real opportunities for Nigerians.”