The Lagos State Government has said it will collaborate with the French Community to promote the French language in schools across the state to foster employment and employability of youths through cultural and linguistic ties.
The Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, stated this while receiving the Minister of State for Development, Francophone and International Partnerships, Mrs. Chrysoula Zacharapolou, and other delegates on a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor’s official residence on Wednesday, according to a press release from the Office of the Deputy Governor.
The governor said, “Nigeria is a country with potential, and it is time to turn those potentials into real possibilities and opportunities for Nigerians through the different initiatives and partnerships.”
He added that the state has also got to the stage where the French language should be made compulsory for students in government schools.
He further stated that only very few countries do not speak English or French in Africa, “and if one can speak both languages, you are able to communicate in most African countries. And this is something to prepare our youths for the future to be global citizens.”
Speaking on the benefits of the partnership in terms of business, entertainment, and culture, Sanwo-Olu noted that his administration already has six pillars of action and Agenda T.H.E.M.E.S+, adding that the E in the agenda stands for Entertainment.
He said his government had trained over 1,000 youths in photography and cinematography, amongst other skills.
The governor commended the Agriculteurs Francais et Developpement International for their support in capacity building and in waterways transportation.
Earlier in her remarks, the Minister of State for Development, Francophone and International Partnerships, Mrs. Chrysoula Zacharapolou, stated that the partnership will facilitate more employment and innovation in the state.
The high point of the visit was the signing of the letter of intent for promoting the French language in secondary schools in the state.
