Governor Otti Salutes France on Bastille Day, Calls for Stronger Nigeria-France Collaboration

...Says Abia is open to deeper partnership with France in education, youth development, and creative economy

As nations across the globe joined France in celebrating its National Day-Bastille Day-on July 14, 2025, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, extended warm felicitations to the French government, diplomatic community, and people of France, while emphasizing Abia's readiness for increased international collaboration.

Governor Otti was ably represented at the colourful commemorative Bastille Day event by the Abia State Liaison Officer to the National Assembly, Hon. Iheanyi Frank Chinasa, who delivered the Governor's goodwill message during a high-level gathering of diplomats, cultural envoys, and international partners in Abuja.

Bastille Day, which marks France's historic transition from monarchy to a republic, is globally recognized as a symbol of liberty, equality, and fraternity-values that continue to inspire democratic governance and civic responsibility across the world.

In his address, Hon. Chinasa conveyed Governor Otti's deep admiration for the age-long friendship between France and Nigeria, noting that both nations share a strong diplomatic bond enriched by cultural exchange, educational partnerships, creative industry collaborations, and international cooperation.

"Abia State, under the visionary leadership of Governor Alex Otti, is open to working more closely with the French government in key areas such as youth development, education, and creative enterprise,ÔÇØ Hon. Chinasa stated.

He further highlighted that the Otti-led administration remains fully committed to strengthening international relationships that promote mutual growth, people-to-people connection, and global inclusion. The state, he said, welcomes meaningful partnerships that align with the government's transformation agenda and drive socio-economic advancement.

As the French tricolour flew high in Abuja, it served not only as a symbol of France's historic evolution but also as a reminder of the enduring power of international solidarity-a bond that Abia State is proud to nurture.

The French National Day event also served as an opportunity for Nigeria and Abia State, in particular, to reaffirm their willingness to deepen bilateral engagements, especially in areas that impact the next generation.

Governor Otti's consistent efforts to position Abia State on the global map through diplomacy, innovation, and strategic partnerships continue to earn commendation across borders.