French President Emmanuel Macron has postponed his planned state visit to Nigeria, which was scheduled for October 28 and 29, amid growing protests and unrest in his country.
A source in the French presidency confirmed the postponement on Friday, citing the domestic situation in France as a factor behind the decision.
The development was also confirmed by a Nigerian official familiar with the matter, who told TheCable that the unrest in France had influenced the decision to delay the trip.
“A president will not travel when his home is contending with internal combustion,” the official said.
France has recently experienced demonstrations over the rising cost of living, public services and conditions in schools. Protests held on October 17 reportedly turned violent in several cities, with buildings set on fire and shops looted.
Authorities are preparing for another round of demonstrations expected on Saturday.
Macron’s postponed visit was expected to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and France, particularly in trade, energy, security and investment.
The two countries have maintained cordial relations, with their leaders engaging in discussions on several areas of mutual interest.
In November 2024, Macron hosted Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on a three-day state visit to France. Their discussions covered financing, energy transition, solid minerals, trade and investment, communications and other areas of cooperation.
The French president’s planned trip to Nigeria was expected to build on the agreements and discussions reached during Tinubu’s visit.
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Macron has maintained close relations with Tinubu since the Nigerian leader assumed office in 2023. Tinubu has visited France at least nine times for official engagements, working vacations and private trips.
Macron last visited Nigeria in July 2018, during the administration of the late former President Muhammadu Buhari. During the visit, he met Buhari and toured the New Afrika Shrine in Lagos.
Macron, who is serving his second and final presidential term, is expected to leave office in May 2027.