France has opened a new Alliance Française centre in Kano, deepening cultural and economic ties and promoting French language as a driver of opportunity.

The French Ambassador to Nigeria, Marc Fonbaustier, highlighted the importance of strengthening ties with Kano State through the French language, describing it as a global language that drives wealth and prosperity.

Fonbaustier made this statement during the opening ceremony of the new Alliance Francaise office in Kano on Wednesday.

He said, “French language is a way of getting employment. If you learn French you can visit many countries, you will connect with people. So, it’s a vehicle for wealth and prosperity,”

The Ambassador said the size and calibre of his team reflect the high importance France attaches to Kano and the entire northern region.

He however, told Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf during a courtesy call that France and Nigeria share a “common destiny,” and his mission was to reaffirm France’s commitment to its partnership with the state.

‎“Our cooperation with Kano is solid, and today’s discussions opened new opportunities for expanded partnership,” he said. ‎

Also speaking at the ceremony, Kano Alliance Francaise Director Ali Dabo expressed gratitude to the French Ambassador and Prof. Adamu Gwarzo for donating the building and providing necessary facilities to support the Alliance’s operations.

The director also lauded the Ambassador for personally gracing the commissioning of the office despite his tight schedules. (Arise News)