The French Embassy in Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to support projects that promote gender equality, women empowerment, and other initiatives that align with France’s development priorities in the country. This was disclosed by the Ambassador of France to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, during a news conference in Abuja where he highlighted the impact of ongoing programmes in partnership with the ministry of women affairs.
According to Ambassador Fonbaustier, the collaboration has generated meaningful returns by supporting Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria involved in implementing the Embassy’s 2025 projects. He explained that France’s funding focuses on key areas such as tackling gender-based violence, encouraging the socio-economic inclusion of women, and creating sustainable livelihoods for youth and vulnerable groups through advocacy and strategic partnerships.
He noted that the support given through indigenous partners was designed to ensure interventions reach the right beneficiaries. The Ambassador said an independent evaluation revealed that for every 1 Naira invested, the programme generated 4 Naira, 30 Kobo in value for women, their families, and local communities.
He described the FEF-OSC as a locally adapted model, stating, “The FEF-OSC is not an imported model but a tailored one. It is a shared ambition built on trust and mutual learning. This investment in capacity is one of the most powerful legacies, skills stay, grow, and multiply long after the funding ends.”
In stressing the programme’s success, he said its strength lay in its strong local integration. He pointed out that partner CSOs secured over 540 formal partnerships with government ministries, the private sector, and traditional rulers, helping projects to continue beyond early funding.
While sharing results achieved, the Ambassador cited a story from a Benue IDP camp where a mother of three, Judith Michael, was able to acquire fashion and design skills through the programme. He said this training placed her on a pathway to dignity and economic independence.
Speaking in connection with the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Ambassador Fonbaustier said the achievements of the initiative reflect the resilience of Nigerian civil society and the “growing Franco-Nigerian friendship.” Quoting a project documentary, he added that the outlook remains positive as “E go better.”
He further explained that the initiative aligns with France’s feminist diplomacy, which promotes inclusive growth, amplifies local voices, and supports the Sustainable Development Goals SDGs.
