Laurent Favier, consul general of France in Lagos, is pushing for deeper partnership in technology between France and Nigeria.
Speaking at the Franco-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce and Industry's Startup Summit and Pitch Tournament in Lagos, Favier commended Nigeria's growing prominence in Africa's tech sector, adding that the country attracted more than $400 million in startup funding last year.
He recognised Nigeria as one of Africa's "big four" tech powerhouses, with Kenya, Egypt, and South Africa, citing youth-driven innovation and entrepreneurial enthusiasm for the country's rapid digital economy growth.
Favier revealed that between January and September 2025, French startups raised €6 billion, primarily in Artificial Intelligence, Health Tech, and Green Innovation.
He added that France's startup ecosystem has grown from three unicorns in 2017 to 26 expected by 2025, thanks to continued innovation and government support from President Emmanuel Macron.
Favier hailed the €6 billion raised as a tenfold increase in five years, demonstrating France's commitment to technological sovereignty and global competitiveness.
According to Favier, “France and Nigeria are natural partners in technology and innovation. Both nations represent powerhouses - one in Europe, the other in Africa - and it only makes sense to build stronger bridges between our ecosystems.
“The French government remains firmly committed to strengthening this partnership between our two nations.”
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