…By Lola Smith for TDPel Media.
President Bola Tinubu, who was expected to participate in a live economic discussion at the world leaders’ summit in Paris, reportedly did not take the stage himself.
Instead, he delegated Nigeria’s ambassador to represent him at the event, as reported by Peoples Gazette.
Reasons for Tinubu’s Absence Unclear:
The exact reasons for President Tinubu’s absence from the summit stage remain unclear.
Prior to the event, his office had announced his presence in France to attend the summit and engage in discussions about Africa’s economic future.
However, he did not join the debate as scheduled.
Paris Summit’s Objective:
The two-day summit, held at Palais Brongniart in Paris, aims to explore effective strategies to combat poverty and address the adverse effects of climate change on the global financial system.
It brings together notable figures to discuss these pressing issues and seek viable solutions.
Tinubu’s Expected Participation:
President Tinubu was expected to join the economic discussion at 6:00 p.m. local time (7:00 p.m. Nigerian time) on Thursday.
This appearance would have marked his first participation in such a forum since assuming office on May 29.
His team had indicated his readiness for this engagement.
Nigerian Ambassador Represents Tinubu:
In President Tinubu’s absence, Nigerian Ambassador Adamu Ahmed represented him at the summit.
Ahmed shared the stage with prominent figures such as David Craig, Mark Carney, Mary Schapiro, Sabine Mauderer, and Catherine Mckenna, discussing various aspects related to climate, finance, and diversity.
Ambassador’s Speech Highlights Africa’s Perspective:
Ambassador Ahmed delivered a prepared speech, emphasizing the pressing social issues in Africa and the need for world leaders to prioritize them alongside environmental concerns.
0He commended President Macron for raising the issue of poverty and highlighted the post-COVID-19 economic challenges faced by African countries.
Tinubu’s Efforts and Nigeria’s Climate Change Act:
The ambassador mentioned Nigeria’s response to climate change, including the enactment of the Climate Change Act in 2021.
He noted President Tinubu’s role as the head of the Climate Change Council and highlighted the establishment of a climate change fund and a National Action Plan.
The target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 was also mentioned, acknowledging the significant challenges ahead.
Conclusion:
President Tinubu’s decision to delegate the Nigerian ambassador at the world leaders’ summit in Paris raises questions about his absence from the live economic discussion.
The summit, focused on poverty alleviation and climate change, witnessed the ambassador’s participation, highlighting Africa’s perspective and Nigeria’s efforts in tackling climate issues.
This trip marked President Tinubu’s first official visit abroad since assuming the presidency.