French National Day holds in Port Harcourt

… as France set to increase Nigeria investment beyond $2bn

Fireworks rented the Port Harcourt skyline as hundreds of French nationals in residing in the oil city marked the French National Day (La Journee Nationale Francaise).

This is coming at a period the government in Paris is set to increase French investment in Africa’s largest economy, which is France’s second biggest global investment destination, according to information from the French Embassy in Nigeria.

In 2011, while speaking at this year’s French National Day in Port Harcourt, the then French Ambassador to Nigeria, Jean Michel-Dummond disclosed that “Nigeria is the second largest host to French investments globally, totalling $2 billion which will be reviewed upwards as security improves.”

It was a momentous occasion for French men and women in Port Harcourt, the high octane hydrocarbon city, as hundreds of nationals from Francois Hollande’s country appeared in very colourful attires for the evening event.

The Consul General in French Consulate in Lagos, Ambassador Marcel Encure assured that the French government will strengthen the support for the fight against terrorism in the country.

He stressed that the business relationship between France and Nigeria will continue to improve for the benefit of both countries.

Also speaking, the Honorary Consular, Nicholas Brunnet commended the Rivers State Government for always creating an enabling environment for French businesses to thrive.

Governor Nyesome Wike told the happy Frenchmen and women, who were led by Consul General in the French Consulate in Lagos Marcel Encure, that his administration had taken steps to improve security in the state.

The governor urged the French Government to open a visa application centre in Port Harcourt, to cater for the South-South and South-East states.

Wike said: “Terrorism is now a global phenomenon. That is why we call on France to continue to support the fight against Boko Haram.

“We will always have a wonderful relationship with France. We urge the French government to open a visa application centre here in Port Harcourt to serve the neighbouring states.”

BEN EGUZOZIE