Fifty French Companies Show Interest In Nigeria

Fifty French companies have indicated interest in the Nigerian capital market and the development of the country’s economy.

In line with the interest, a delegation of representatives of the companies led by the Chairman, Mouvement des Entreprises de France, the umbrella association of entrepreneurs in France, Mr. Pierre Gattaz, visited the Nigerian Stock Exchange on Wednesday in company with the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Denys Gauer; and the Chairman, Heirs Holdings, Mr. Tony Elumelu.

Gattaz said the visit was aimed at understanding Nigeria and building a long-lasting relationship aimed at helping the country meet its needs in the areas of infrastructure, agriculture, energy, jobs and training, among others.

“That is why we are and we are very much ready to see the development of Nigeria; to see the growth of the population, and the growth of GDP. It is my first visit in Africa and I have chosen Nigeria (as the first country to visit),” he said.

Gattaz, who said that France and French companies had expertise in power, energy and electricity, explained that though French companies such as Lafarge and Total had operations in Nigeria, many others had no presence in the country.

“Nigeria is a discovery for us. We see a lot of good people, very motivating people, and very friendly people with France. So, we are very happy to be here and we are very motivated to be here and France can bring a lot of things to Nigeria,” he said.

He, however, said it would take some time for the impact of the visit to be felt.

“It will take some time because it’s my first visit to Nigeria. But what I want to do is to motivate all French companies to come here and participate in the development of your country. That is very important because all your needs can be met through investment and we are here for a long-term period; that is how I see the partnership between the two countries.”

On the experience of the delegation so far, he said, “All these 50 business personalities who are with me are very motivated. They look very happy with what they see in this country. So, I think there will be more Totals and Lafarges coming in.”

A stockbroker, Mr. Sam Ndata, who welcomed the delegation to the capital market on behalf of other stockbrokers, called on the team to ensure that more French companies get listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange, especially as those already listed were doing well.