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Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to collaborate with the French community to foster employment and employability of youths in the state through the cultural and linguistic ties.
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Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamza, gave the assurance, yesterday, when he received a delegation led by the French Minister of State for Development, Francophone and International Partnerships, Mrs. Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, at the Deputy Governor’s official residence.
He said: “Nigeria is a country with potentials, and it is time to turn those potentials to real possibilities and opportunities for Nigerians through different initiatives and partnerships. The state has got to a stage where the French language should be made compulsory for pupils in government-owned schools.
“There are very few countries in Africa that don’t speak English or French, 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 so they can be global citizens.”
He commended Agriculteurs Francais et Developpement International (AFDI) for its support, especially in capacity-building and in waterways transportation.
Earlier in her remarks, Zacharopoulou said that the collaboration would facilitate more employment and more innovation to Lagos State. She noted that the best of the country could be felt almost immediately, through the energy of the people and the potential of the country.
The highlight of the event was the signing of the letter of intent of promoting the French Language and improvement of the quality of French teaching in secondary schools in the state.
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