The meeting is part of efforts to forge closer ties with English-speaking Africa.
President Macron, a 40-year-old former investment banker who speaks fluent English, has made a point of boosting ties with France’s former colonies but also improving trade with anglophone countries.
Security operatives have taken over the road leading to Afrika shrine popularly known as Fela Shrine ahead of the visit by France President, Emmanuel Macron.
President Macron arrived Abuja earlier today where he met with president Muhammdu Buhari in Aso Rock before proceeding to Lagos to visit Fela Ransome-Kuti’s popular African Shrine.
Mr Macron is not a stranger to Nigeria. He trained as a senior civil servant at the French Embassy in Lagos in 2004, seven years after Fela died.
At the African Shrine, Ikeja, he will be treated to Afrobeat music. His host, Lagos state Governor Akinwunmi Ambode will use the occasion to promote tourism in Lagos.
On Wednesday, President Macron is expected to open the magnificent Alliance Francaise building at 9am. Located in Ikoyi, the building is the biggest and best such facility that blends today’s innovative and classy design with the traditions of the past.
The choice of location — the Shrine concert venue of Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti — has come as a surprise for many Nigerians given its association with the anti-establishment musician.
“It’s a pleasant surprise that Macron chose to celebrate the cultural scene in Lagos,” said Steve Ayorinde, Lagos state tourism commissioner.
“But it didn’t come as a shock, knowing that France is a very cultural country and knowing that Macron is a young president.”
Meanwhile, the Lagos State Government has announced that there would be traffic diversion and restricted movement from 12 noon to 12 midnight on Tuesday around the Alausa, Afrika Shrine/Agidingbi axis.
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