France will not solve Africa’s problems – French President, Macron
French President Emmanuel Macron, at the joint press conference at the forecourt of the Aso Rock Villa, pledged to increase the cooperation between Nigeria and France in tackling security challenges occasioned by Boko Haram and ISIS jihadists in the country.
“First of all I think the main plan is an African plan and France is not the one to solve or fix African situations,” Macron said.
When asked how France planned to curb terrorism in Africa and more specifically curb herdsmen and farmers crisis in Nigeria, Macron said, “Well, it’s just that you have all these several issues correlated and your question is related to this event.”
Africa government need to come together:
Macron in his statement urged Africans to come together to get rid of those he called “Jihadists”.
He said total victory over the insurgents was possible as long as countries such as Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon are organized and united.
Stability:
Macron advised that Nigeria needs to embrace the method of stabilization to solve security problems.
“It is very important to build not just the security approach but the stabilisation approach at the same time, to provide new opportunities to these people and convoy two massages: your governments will take care of you, I mean provide security and secondly your governments can provide opportunities to you,” he said.
Furtherance of economic projects:
Macron said he will be ready to work with different African leaders objectively.
“I want to accompany different governments and leaders whose main objectives is precisely to provide economic projects.
“I would like to work with different governments on inclusive economic and cultural projects, where you provide the way for your young people to get education, jobs as well as to be proud of what you are. I think is is extremely important,” he said.
Proper planning:
Macron said the government has to look into changing its security plan.
“First of all I think the main plan is an African plan and France is not the one to solve or fix African situations,” he said.
Macron recalled his days in Nigeria about 15 years ago, noting that it was an emotional comeback, especially as he never imagined he would return to Abuja one day as President of France.
