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A financially stable Africa’s financial system comes with great benefits for the continent. Aside creating a larger single market, increasing intra-African trade, boosting productivity and competitiveness, a financially stable Africa will help in attracting more foreign direct investment to the continent. That explains why the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Bank of Angola signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for bilateral technical cooperation at the just concluded 2025 International Monetary Fund (IMF)/World Bank Annual Meetings in Washington DC.

CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, who signed on behalf of the Bank alongside the Governor of the Central Bank of Angola, Manuel Antonio Tiago Diaz, noted that the MoU aligns with Africa’s broader goals of economic integration and financial stability. Both apex bank leaders said the partnership marks a critical development between the two institutions in their efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation and technical exchange.

By the MoU, the two institutions are expected to establish a bilateral forum for the reciprocal exchange and sharing of technical assistance between the authorities, to enhance capacity in the execution of their respective Central Bank functions. They are also expected to cooperate and collaborate in the cross-border supervision of authorised institutions and exchange of cybersecurity information between them.

According to them, the institutions are to partner on licensing, supervision, resolution planning and implementation of resolution measures for cross-border financial establishments. They are also to ensure transparent and smooth periodic exchange of information as well as define procedures for exchange of information. The cooperation will also extend to exchange control, financial markets and foreign reserves management, currency management and economic research.

The partnership further extends to payment, clearing and settlement systems management, financial sector development, banking supervision and regulation as well as Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism. Both central bank leaders said it is their hope that the outcome of the MoU implementation will be a win-win for both parties.

Nigeria investors’ forum in Washington DC

As part of sustained efforts to boost investor confidence and strengthen Nigeria’s economic outlook, Cardoso and Minister of State for Finance, Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite, engaged global investors at a high-level forum on the sidelines of the IMF and World Bank Fall Meetings in Washington, D.C. They were joined by CBN Deputy Governor (Economic Policy), Dr. Mohammed Abdullahi; Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the Economy, Mrs. Sanyade Okoli; and other key government officials.

The session offered a comprehensive update on Nigeria’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms, enhanced fiscal-monetary coordination, and the policy measures shaping the country’s growth trajectory. Governor Cardoso highlighted sustained stability in the foreign exchange market, steady accumulation of external reserves, and growing investor participation across fixed income and equities. Discussions emphasised how coordinated fiscal and monetary policies, supported by market transparency and strategic infrastructure reforms, are laying the foundation for durable, private-sector-led growth. ‘Nigeria’s focus remains clear: strengthening our fundamentals, advancing reforms, and unlocking opportunities for sustainable investment and growth. We are encouraged by the progress made so far and remain confident that ongoing reforms are laying a stronger foundation for a more resilient economy,’ Cardoso said.

The Nigerian delegation reaffirmed the government’s commitment to policy consistency and continued reform momentum, creating an environment that is open, transparent, and attractive to long-term capital. Participants expressed optimism that Nigeria’s strengthened institutions, enhanced investor trust, and ongoing reforms will continue to drive sustainable growth and broaden opportunities for all stakeholders.

Building restructured, resilient economy

Nigeria’s economy has been fully restructured and is now resilient, with huge buffers against global risks, Cardoso declared said. He spoke during the Intergovernmental Group of Twenty-Four (G-24) press briefing in US. Cardoso, who is the leader of the Nigeria delegation at the meetings, said the naira has equally emerged as a competitive currency, with the economy witnessing positive trade balances and large businesses moving from imports to export of locally produced goods and commodities.

According to him, the positive economic indicators have combined to create resilient and strong buffers, keeping the economy in great shapes. Speaking on the impact of the trade tariffs on the domestic economy, the CBN boss said the tariffs are less of problems for the country. ‘And for us again, oil is basically the only commodity that was so exposed to the tariffs, and the impact of that was relatively modest. We now have a more competitive currency with the results that, for once, we have a situation where we have a positive balance of trade surplus, and we expect it to be six per cent in GDP for some time,’ he said.

‘So basically, what is happening is a complete restructuring of the economy, where we are encouraging people to go into domestic production, and, of course, discouraging imports.

‘And I think we were very fortunate, because a lot of the things that were needed to have been done, we did them much earlier, and as a result of that, we’re able to create resilience and buffers against potential shocks,’ he stated.

Cardoso explained that oil was the oil commodity that was exposed to the trade tariffs, but the impact was equally modest. ‘So, and of course, in terms of anchoring expectations, we found that those who followed the Nigerian economy were fairly comfortable. And for us, again, oil is basically the only commodity that was so exposed, and the impact of that was relatively modest,’ he said.

He said the G-24 has played significant role in finding solutions to global challenges, through dialogue and exchange of ideas with global financial institutions. He said although global growth has been slow, but not as behind as would have been expected to be.

In his remarks, G-24 Chairman, Pablo Quirno noted that recent adverse shocks in global economy have left growth below pre-pandemic levels, with rising policy uncertainties creating substantial medium-term headwinds. ‘Emerging market and developing economies have faced deteriorating terms of trade, reduced export volumes, and declining foreign currency earnings. Many of these countries have implemented domestic policies to mitigate uncertainty, but constrained policy space underscores the urgent need for collective solutions supported by multilateral institutions,’ he said

IMF’s views on reforms benefits

The reforms in exchange rate and monetary policy tightening of the CBN played significant role in the gradual drop of inflation rate to 18.02 per cent in September, International Monetary Fund (IMF) Director of the Africa Department, Abebe Selassie said. Speaking during the Regional Economic Outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa session in Washington DC, he said the Fund is encouraged by the September inflation rate, but advised that the government do more to bring down the cost of living for the people.

Nigeria’s inflation rate dropped to 18.02 per cent in September 2025, down from 20.12 per cent in August, marking a six-month streak of decline and the lowest rate in over three years. Selassie said the economic reforms will further support the projected 3.9 per cent growth for 2025, and 4.1 per cent growth for 2026. He said that to rein in inflation, the CBN tightened policy aggressively, raising rates by more than 800 basis points and strengthening liquidity management.

Selassie said the use of orthodoxy by halting central bank financing of government beyond statutory limits and re-anchoring monetary policy on its core mandate also supported the decline in inflation rate. He said the outlook for Sub-Saharan Africa is showing resilience, despite a challenging external environment with uneven prospects in commodity prices, still tight borrowing conditions, and a deterioration of the global trade and aid landscape.

‘Economic growth is projected to remain steady at 4.1 percent in 2025 with a modest pickup in 2026, supported by macroeconomic stabilization and reform e?ort in key economies. But this resilience cannot be taken for granted. Overlapping monetary, financial, external, and fiscal vulnerabilities are present in much of the region. Uncertainty persists and risks remain tilted to the downside. Domestic revenue mobilization and strengthened debt management, can help bolster macroeconomic stability while funding essential development needs,’ he said.

Selassie said the region has demonstrated remarkable resilience to a series of major shocks over the past several years, and it features several of the world’s fastest-growing economies, including Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda.

‘However, economic performance remains markedly weaker in resource intensive countries and in several conflict-affected states. In these economies, which represent most of the region’s population, gains in income per capita remain modest-around one per cent a year on average, and less in the poorest countries,’ he said.

He disclosed that fiscal fragility is a key vulnerability for much of the region, and especially lower-income countries while average public- debt ratios have stabilized but at an elevated level.

‘And the debt-service burden, in terms of interest payments relative to fiscal revenues, has increased steadily, rising far above its level in other regions and crowding out priority development expenditures, for instance in Kenya and Nigeria. Twenty countries in the region are at high risk of or in debt distress,’ he said.

Selassie explained that faced with high external borrowing costs and limited financial market access, governments across the region have increasingly shifted to domestic financing. Although this shift may help cushion external shocks and reduce exchange rate risk, it has not proved a panacea.

He said that the domestic cost of capital remains elevated across the region. ‘Local financial markets are underdeveloped-characterized by shallow depth, fragmentation, illiquidity, and high transaction costs and lending spreads. These structural weaknesses raise financing costs for both governments and firms and constrain the capacity to absorb debt, particularly longer-term instruments. Monetary instability and inflation, opaque financial sectors and debt exposures, and regulatory uncertainty intensify the problem,’ he stated. The Fund also lauded Nigeria’s tax reforms, determination to increase tax revenue and reduce spending.

Division Chief, Fiscal Affairs Department at IMF, Davide Furceri, said Nigeria has done significantly well in improving revenue through tax reforms and streamlining the tax code. He said: ‘I think on the revenue side, there is scope to improve revenue through reform of the tax administration – to increase revenue mobilization in a way that doesn’t outgrow, for example, tax reform. And actually, Nigeria has done quite a lot in the past years. I think many of the laws that have been passed have tried to streamline the tax code,’ he said.

‘These are policies that go in the right direction. On the spending side, there is scope to, on the one hand, improve the efficiency of the spending itself – and we also talk in the chapter about the gains that can be achieved when countries improve the efficiency and composition of spending – but also to increase social spending to address social vulnerability in the country,’ he added.

Speaking during a recent episode of the Culli Podcast, Odumodublvck said Skepta’s influence shaped his music, fashion, and overall outlook as an artist.

‘I’m sure he doesn’t even believe it when I say that if not for Skepta, I would not be here. I’m telling you brother, if not for Skepta I would not be here,’ he said.

Recalling his early struggles, the rapper explained how Skepta inspired him to embrace simplicity and confidence even when he lacked money to afford flashy clothes or accessories.

‘When we were coming up, we didn’t have money to buy clothes. But because I was a follower of Skepta, I realised that if you can get a tracksuit pant, a white T-shirt, and nice sneakers, you can still look cool and mash up the show-even without chains. This is entertainment, you have to look the part,’ he said.

Odumodublvck also credited Skepta for influencing his sound and mindset toward collaboration and creativity.

‘Skepta say, ‘If you know the hack, you tell your friend. Don’t hide it. The sky is big enough for everybody.’ Na Skepta teach us say you can make music that fits the radio, the stage, and still resonate with the streets at the same time,’ he added.

He concluded by describing Skepta as a true pioneer, saying his melodies and approach to modern rap helped him understand that hip-hop doesn’t always have to sound violent.

‘Skepta is the OG, bro. It’s more than the music too.’

In celebration of its Diamond Jubilee, the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) has conferred the prestigious Veteran Sports Journalist Award on Phemmy Adetula, in recognition of his exceptional contribution to sports journalism and development in Nigeria.

Phemmy Adetula’s illustrious career began in the early 1990s with Sunray Newspaper. He later joined Mastersports International as Producer of the popular Sports Extra on Africa Independent Television (AIT), before moving to SuperSport Nigeria as a Content Producer. In 2018, his leadership and dedication earned him election as Board Member and Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC).

In his remarks, Adetula who currently serves as Special Adviser on Sports to the APC National Youth Leader expressed deep appreciation to the leadership of SWAN for the honour, describing it as a humbling recognition of decades of passion and service to sports journalism.

‘This honour means a lot to me. I sincerely thank the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria for finding me worthy among so many outstanding colleagues. This gesture will continue to inspire me to give back even more to my colleagues and the sporting community,’ he said.

He dedicated the award to his family, colleagues, and to all sports journalists who have passed on, noting that their shared commitment continues to shape the growth of Nigerian sports media.

Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) Ltd has reaffirmed its long-standing commitment to women’s empowerment and financial inclusion through its sponsorship of the FinTribe Finance Fair 2025 for the second consecutive year.

Themed ‘Level Up,’ the fair aims to unite thousands of women, offering opportunities to learn, network, and access essential tools and resources for making informed financial and business decisions. The event is scheduled for Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.

For nearly 75 years, NBC has remained a key player in Nigeria’s socio-economic development, consistently investing in impactful initiatives designed to uplift people and communities. Women are integral to NBC’s value chain, serving as dynamic entrepreneurs, distributors, and retailers who drive business growth and innovation. Through diverse empowerment programmes and targeted incentive schemes, NBC actively enables these women to expand their businesses, enhance their livelihoods, and make significant contributions to the nation’s economic advancement.

The sponsorship of the FinTribe Finance Fair is a testament to NBC’s comprehensive sustainability agenda, which places a strong emphasis on advancing education, fostering inclusion, nurturing entrepreneurship, and promoting economic empowerment. NBC firmly believes that empowering women not only transforms individual lives but also creates ripple effects that uplift entire communities and positively shape future generations.

If diplomacy had a red carpet, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar would undoubtedly be the star of the show. In just two short years as Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, he has transformed the landscape of global representation, infusing it with an impressive blend of confidence, vision, and sophistication. Under his stewardship, Nigeria has evolved from merely participating in international dialogue to actively shaping it, establishing itself as a pivotal player on the world stage. Tuggar’s unique approach to diplomacy combines sharp intellect with a captivating flair, turning high-stakes boardrooms and international summits into arenas where Nigeria shines with both purpose and precision.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu unveiled his innovative 4D Foreign Policy Doctrine-comprising Democracy, Development, Diaspora, and Demography-Tuggar did more than implement the policy; he breathed life into it. These four pillars have become the bedrock of a dynamic and assertive Nigerian presence that the global community cannot overlook. His diplomatic efforts have resulted in securing billion-dollar investments from powerhouse nations like India, the Netherlands, and Brazil, and have successfully positioned Nigeria as a significant participant in esteemed international forums such as BRICS and the G20. For instance, his recent engagement with French counterpart Jean-Noël Barrot not only solidified Nigeria’s partnerships across critical sectors like technology, agriculture, culture, and innovation but also reaffirmed Nigeria’s role as the cornerstone of stability in West Africa.

Tuggar’s commitment to the Nigerian diaspora is evident through initiatives aimed at ensuring the safe return of stranded citizens, opening up scholarship opportunities in various countries, and establishing the Nigerians in Diaspora Database. This database has become a vital link, reconnecting thousands of global citizens to their Nigerian roots. His drive for cultural heritage is showcased in his advocacy for the return of the iconic Benin Bronzes, which has not only sparked international conversations but also turned the Ministry’s Exhibition Atrium in Abuja into a celebrated cultural jewel.

This venue has hosted a plethora of dignitaries, including presidents, CEOs, and artists, for two days filled with networking, deal-making, and cultural celebration. The ministry’s efforts culminated in multi-billion-dollar agreements as well as a landmark trade pact with Benin Republic, further solidifying Nigeria’s central role in regional commerce and innovation.

In addition to these accomplishments, Tuggar is spearheading the digitization of consular services, modernizing Nigeria’s foreign missions, and establishing one of the most transparent and efficient ministries within the government. Under his leadership, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has emerged as a beacon of innovation and accountability, positioning Nigeria’s global image as vibrant and connected. Today, the nation stands proud, with its international image shining brightly-confident, cultured, and interlinked with partners worldwide. At the forefront of this transformation is Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, a diplomat who has redefined the narrative of Nigerian diplomacy, transforming it into a resounding national success story that gives Nigeria a compelling new voice on the global stage.

An Osun East Senatorial District aspirant, Francis Olaniyi, has lauded the conferment of award of honorary Fellow of the Centre for Leadership and Management on the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, by the University of Ilorin (UNILORIN), in recognition of what it called his exceptional contributions to national development, public service and visionary leadership.

The conferment took place at the university auditorium during the institution’s first Distinguished Lecture and Conferment of Award Ceremony, organised by the UNILORIN Centre for Advancement.

Olaniyi, who was at the event to felicitate the former Osun State governor, congratulated him on the honour bestowed on him by the institution.

Olaniyi, the Majobaote of Ipetu Ijesa, said: ‘The award is a well-deserved one. It’s a recognition of our leader’s selfless service to the people of Nigeria. It’s a recognition of his sterling performances in the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy.”

Olaniyi, whose political structure is popularly known as Ijoba Federal, told the audience that naming the centre after the minister was a good step in the right direction,

‘The minister is working effectively to transform the country’s blue economy into sustainable national development,’ he said.

The ceremony featured unveiling of Adegboyega Oyetola Centre for Blue and Regenerative Economy, established by the university to promote research, innovation and sustainable development in Nigeria’s maritime sector.

The centre was named in honour of the minister for his role in advancing the nation’s blue economy agenda.

Delivering the maiden Distinguished Lecture titled: ‘The Nexus between Blue Economy and Higher Education for Sustainable Development in Nigeria’, Oyetola described the blue economy as a transformative pathway for sustainable national growth, driven by the responsible use of ocean, sea and inland water resources..

The 12th edition of the Nigeria Energy Exhibition and Conference, a foremost West African influential energy event, begins in Lagos on Monday. The three day energy conference will hold at the Landmark Centre.

Organised by and held with the endorsement of the Federal Ministry of Power, the event-themed ‘Powering Nigeria through investment, innovation and partnership’-will bring together thousands of energy professionals, decision-makers, and innovators to tackle Nigeria’s most pressing energy challenges and explore investment-driven solutions across the value chain.

According to Informa Markets- the event organisers, this year’s edition, now in its 12th year, will focus on unlocking the capital, policy reforms and technologies needed to build a more reliable and sustainable power sector.

Speaking at the pre event briefing, the Exhibition Manager, Energy Portfolio – MEA, Informa Markets, Ade Yesufu, emphasised the strategic focus of this year’s theme and its timeliness considering current reforms.

‘The theme reflects the urgent need to address infrastructure gaps, mobilise investment, and accelerate reforms. Nigeria Energy 2025 will provide a platform where stakeholders can align on policies, forge new partnerships, and showcase innovations that can drive the sector forward,’ Yesufu said.

He noted that the Nigeria Energy conference and exhibition continues to serve as a catalyst for collaboration and deal-making across generation, transmission, distribution, renewables, off-grid systems, and energy efficiency. ‘With Nigeria facing a critical infrastructure gap, slow-moving reforms, and investment bottlenecks, the 2025 edition seeks to spark actionable conversations around public-private partnerships, regulatory harmonisation, and emerging opportunities in areas like hydrogen, decentralised solar, and grid digitization,’ Yesufu explained.

This year’s conference will feature insight-driven sessions led by industry thought leaders including the Special Adviser to the President on Power Infrastructure, Sadiq Wanka; the Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, Biodun Ogunleye; the CEO, Azura Power, Edu Okeke; Vice Chair, Board of Directors, African Energy Council, Dr. Chinnan Dikwal and CEO, Egbin Power Plc, Mokhtar Bounour.

Yesufu added that the sessions will span five core focus areas: Power Deals and PPPs: Structuring bankable energy infrastructure projects; State Reform Strategies: Unlocking decentralised electricity markets; the Hydrogen Shift: Positioning Nigeria in the future energy economy; Grid Efficiency and Innovation: Advancing reliability through technology and Electricity Act in Action: Milestones, market liberalization.

With over 8,500 energy professionals, including energy commissioners, developers, regulators, financiers, and technology providers, expected to participate across three days of high-level summits, technical sessions, and interactive exhibitions, stakeholders insist that the Nigeria Energy programme continues to serve as the ‘go-to’ platform for meaningful dialogue, partnerships, and investment opportunities across the energy value chain.

In the dynamic world of haute perfumery, one Nigerian entrepreneur is setting the stage for a remarkable transformation with a bold vision for modern fragrance. Omotayo Jamilah Awa-Ibraheem, affectionately known as OJ, is the driving force behind Perfectscent Niche Emporium. With her innovative approach, she has been pioneering the introduction of meticulously curated collections of rare and captivating fragrances. Recently, OJ elevated her offerings by unveiling a new line of haute fragrances called Ideo Parfumeurs.

On Sunday, October 5, an elegant launch event in Lagos brought together fragrance connoisseurs and enthusiasts, creating an atmosphere brimming with excitement and appreciation for fine perfumery. The event showcased OJ’s latest creations, which are not merely scents but experiences crafted to evoke emotions and memories.

Ideo Parfumeurs is a brand steeped in rich heritage and the artistry of contemporary perfumery. Founded in Beirut in 2016 by the visionary Ludmila Bitar, the brand aimed to redefine refined perfumery by making it both exquisite and accessible to a wider audience. Each perfume is designed to whisper intimate stories, capture cherished moments, and leave an impression of bold sophistication.

However, the brand’s journey faced significant challenges following the devastating Beirut port explosion, which forced the establishment into a prolonged silence of nearly three years. Today, a vibrant new chapter emerges as Ideo Parfumeurs begins anew under fresh guardianship in France, harmoniously merging its Lebanese origins with the expertise of acclaimed French perfumers. The result is a collection that not only honors its roots but also aspires to new levels of refinement and global recognition.

OJ describes the Ideo Parfumeurs line as more than just fragrances; they are timeless narratives encapsulated in luxurious bottles. ‘It’s a testament to resilience, artistry, and the eternal allure of scent,’ she remarked, emphasizing the emotional depth and creative energy infused into each fragrance. With this collection, OJ invites fragrance lovers to embark on a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary, celebrating the intricate tapestry of life through the power of scent.

There has been wild jubilations in Benue state after Governor Hyacinth Alia dissolved the Board and Management of Lobi Stars Football Club of Makurdi .

In a statement signed by the chief Press Secretary(CPS), to the Governor, Sir Kulas Tersoo, on Thursday the Governor has approved the dissolution of the Board and Management of the Benue state-owned football club.

The statement said the dissolution was with immediate effect.

‘ The decision is aimed at repositioning the club for greater efficiency, accountability, and better performance in both the Nigeria Premier Football League and other competitions.

‘The Governor further directed that all members of the dissolved management should hand over all official documents, assets, and responsibilities to the Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Creativity with immediate effect.’

The Governor expressed appreciation to the outgoing board and management for their services to the club and the state, and assured that a new management structure will soon be announced to drive the next phase of Lobi Stars’ growth and competitiveness.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development as a vital tool for youth engagement, talent discovery, and social cohesion in Benue State.

Recalled, the dissolved Philip Nongu led-Board and Management took over the club in September last year .

The club was 15th position on the Nigeria Premier League (NPFL),but went down on relegation thereafter, bringing pains and anguished to the football loving people of Benue state.

Nigerian students, particularly from Yaba College of Technology, are poised for an uplift in global academic career prospects following a high-level pact with French institutions.

The collaboration, driven by a historical relationship, promises to make world-class French higher education more accessible and affordable for Nigerian graduates.

The ‘Study in France Conference’, hosted by the school and featuring a delegation of French universities and specialised institutions, signals a robust expansion of academic and cultural ties.

Rector, Dr. Ibraheem Abdul, noted that the conference is a step in strengthening the educational and cultural bridge with France.

He highlighted the institution’s relationship with France, which began over three decades ago with donation of advanced equipment that birthed the Department of Industrial Maintenance Engineering.

‘The conference aligns with our commitment to international collaboration and vision to position the poly as a global competitive, innovation-driven institution,’ Dr. Abdul said.

He outlined the college’s ‘ERECT Agenda’, a framework focusing on empowering staff, repackaging academic programmes, exploring collaborations, consolidating revenue and tapping into grants.

‘This strategy, implemented through key centres like centre for Linkages, Partnerships and International Relations (CLPIR), is to ensure graduates are not only employable but industry-ready.’

The rector underscored areas where the synergy with France is expected to yield benefits.

‘A major focus is leveraging the strength of School of Art, Design and Printinga foremost art school in West Africa.’

Abdul hoped HND graduates in Fine Art, Graphic Design, and Industrial Design can transition into Master’s degree programmes in France.

‘The collaboration is set to establish dual certification programmes and capacity building in technical and vocational education, essential for Nigeria’s industrial growth.

‘Joint research partnerships in sustainability, renewable energy and digital innovation are on the table, offering students and faculty exposure to cutting-edge research.

‘Student and staff exchange programmes and French language training will foster cross-cultural understanding and prepare students for a globalised marketplace.’

The French delegation, comprising representatives from Université de Lille, Kedge Business School and engineering and art schools, explained why Nigerian students should choose France.

Ms. Oumou Diakité, deputy head of Africa Unit on Campus France, said France is seeking to increase its international student numbers, aiming for 500,000 by 2027. She noted that student mobility from Nigeria has seen a 76 per cent increase in the last five years, a trend the France is keen to accelerate.

Diakité detailed the significant financial and academic advantages of the French system, mentioning affordable tuition, English taught programmes and generous government aid.