Nigerian alumni contributing to stronger binational ties with France, says envoy

Marc Fonbaustier, French ambassador to Nigeria, has applauded Nigerian alumni of French institutions for “building bridges” between both nations.

Speaking on Wednesday evening at the France Alumni Day reception in Abuja, the envoy said the event was aimed at celebrating the achievements of Nigerians who studied in France and returned home to make meaningful contributions across sectors.

“This evening is for you,” the ambassador said.

“It is a time to reconnect, share experiences, and expand your professional network.

“We are particularly proud to highlight the journeys of three inspiring women who studied in France, acquired valuable skills and knowledge, and returned to Nigeria to launch their own businesses.”

He said the alumni’s success stories reflect the value of international education and demonstrate how partnerships between countries can be strengthened through people-to-people connections.

“Tonight is not only about reflecting on your experience in France. It is also about what you have done with it,” he added.

“It is a celebration of determination, bold choices — and finally — success.”

In line with the ongoing United Nations (UN) Ocean Conference in Nice, France, the event also included an environmental component.

Fonbaustier named 17 Nigerian university students as winners of the ‘Get creative with plastic’ challenge — a campus initiative encouraging recycling through innovation and art.

Azubuike Ugochi, a chemical engineering student of Yaba College of Technology, thanked the embassy for recognising her article as a winning entry.

Ugochi wrote on ‘The inheritance of plastic: A Nigerian metamorphosis’.

She spotlighted how microplastics have threatened the survival of fish in Makoko — an informal settlement in Lagos which is mostly built on stilts — with a ripple effect on families depending on fishing for income.

The France alumni network is an initiative that connects graduates of French higher institutions globally, fostering cultural and professional ties.

Weeks ago, the embassy organised a job fair for its alumni in Lagos.