Tinubu meets Kagame in Paris to discuss Africa global role

President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria met with his Rwandan counterpart, Paul Kagame, for a private lunch in Paris, France, on Sunday. The meeting provided an opportunity for the two leaders to discuss global affairs and Africa’s position in the rapidly changing world landscape. According to President Tinubu’s social media handle, the lunch meeting focused on the current state of world affairs and ways to advance Africa’s interests.

President Tinubu had departed Lagos on December 28, 2025, for a European trip, which is part of his end-of-year break. The trip will also precede his official visit to Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, where he has been invited to participate in the 2026 Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week (ADSW 2026) Summit. The summit, scheduled to take place in early January, aims to bring together leaders from government, business, and society to discuss the next era of sustainable development.

The ADSW 2026 Summit, themed “The Nexus of Next: All Systems Go,” will focus on connecting ambition with action across innovation, finance, and people. The event will showcase how the world can move forward with confidence in achieving sustainable development. President Tinubu’s participation in the summit is expected to provide a platform for Nigeria to engage with global leaders on issues related to sustainability and development.

The meeting between President Tinubu and President Kagame in Paris highlights the importance of international cooperation and dialogue in addressing global challenges. As Africa continues to play a significant role in global affairs, such meetings provide opportunities for African leaders to discuss common interests and challenges. President Tinubu’s trip to Abu Dhabi and participation in the ADSW 2026 Summit will further reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development and its engagement with the global community. After the summit, President Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria, bringing back insights and experiences that will inform the country’s development strategies.