Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and France’s President Emmanuel Macron held a high-level phone conversation on Sunday, focusing heavily on Nigeria’s escalating security challenges and the need for deeper international cooperation.

According to official briefings, the discussion was prompted by the recent surge in violent attacks, mass kidnappings, and terror-related activities across several northern and central states. The worsening situation has drawn global attention, with both France and the United States showing increased diplomatic engagement with Abuja.

During the conversation, President Macron expressed solidarity with Nigeria, assuring President Tinubu of France’s readiness to strengthen support in combating terrorism and securing affected communities.

Macron emphasised that no country should remain passive amid Nigeria’s growing insecurity concerns. He noted that France is prepared to collaborate more deeply through intelligence sharing, capacity enhancement, humanitarian support, and coordinated counter-terrorism initiatives.

Tinubu Seeks International Backing as Crisis Deepens

Sources familiar with the exchange reveal that President Tinubu requested France’s assistance as part of broader efforts to stabilise regions hit hardest by banditry and extremist attacks. Tinubu reportedly highlighted the need for expanded global cooperation to protect civilians and rebuild confidence in national security operations.

The talks come at a time when a U.S. congressional delegation is also in Nigeria holding strategic meetings with the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, further underscoring the urgency of the crisis.

Global Focus Intensifies on Nigeria’s Security Situation

With multiple international actors now signalling readiness to assist, analysts believe Nigeria may be entering a new phase of security diplomacy—one that could reshape regional counter-terrorism efforts.

However, experts caution that success will depend on seamless coordination between local security forces and international partners, as well as effective governance in affected communities.

Officials say follow-up engagements between Nigeria and France are expected in the coming days to define the scope of support and establish operational frameworks. For many Nigerians, hopes are high that renewed international backing may help slow the wave of violence disrupting everyday life across several states.