The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, has revealed that more than 1,150 Nigerians have pursued higher education in France, applauding their creativity and the positive impact they have made across various sectors, especially in innovation and sustainable development.
Fonbaustier made this known during a cocktail reception held in Abuja on Thursday to commemorate France Alumni Day, an annual event celebrating international graduates of French institutions.
The ceremony celebrated the achievements of Nigerian alumni who have excelled in diverse fields such as fashion, art, environmental sustainability, and French gastronomy.
Speaking to journalists at the event, the ambassador praised the entrepreneurial spirit of Nigerian graduates, many of whom returned home after their studies in France to start impactful ventures and contribute to national growth.
“You may be surprised to know that over 1,150 Nigerians have studied in France,” Fonbaustier said. “Some chose to stay in France through employment opportunities, while many returned to Nigeria where they are now building businesses, driving development, and shaping their future.”
One of the evening’s highlights was the recognition of 17 Nigerian alumni who were honoured for their groundbreaking work in plastic recycling—an initiative aimed at addressing environmental issues through sustainable practices.
“These individuals are part of a broader effort to turn plastic waste into valuable products,” Fonbaustier noted. “It’s a powerful example of how international education can drive innovation and cross-cultural collaboration.”
He also observed that many of the alumni are based in Lagos and southern Nigeria, attributing this to the concentration of economic activities and job opportunities in those areas.
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