French President Emmanuel Macron has postponed his planned state visit to Nigeria, initially scheduled for October 28 and 29, amid growing unrest in France and other concerns surrounding the trip. The development was reported on Friday, October 23, 2026, with a French presidential source confirming the postponement.
According to reports, widespread protests and violent disturbances in France were among the factors surrounding the decision. The visit was also expected to strengthen diplomatic, economic and cultural relations between Nigeria and France, with discussions involving trade, investment and bilateral cooperation.
Macron was due to meet President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to build on agreements reached during Tinubu’s 2024 state visit to France.
The postponement comes despite preparations for the high profile visit, which was expected to include a delegation of French business leaders.
While a new date has not been officially confirmed, the development represents a delay in the two countries’ planned diplomatic engagement. Nigeria’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had earlier said it had not received official information about the cancellation, highlighting the need for further clarification from the relevant authorities.
