Why I visit Afrika Shrine - Macron

The France President Emmanuel Macron gave his reasons for his visit to Afrika Shrine in Lagos as a result of his longing for the good memories of the iconic place.

The President stated this while reacting to questions after a closed door bilateral talks with President Muhammadu Buhari at the presidential villa, Abuja, on Tuesday.

It is believed that Macron would become the first “real president” to enter the Afrika Shrine synonymous with marijuana smoke, sexy backup dancers and protest music.



President Emmanuel Macron, 3rd right, at the Afrika Shrine, with Lagos State Governor Ambode

Ambode welcomes Macron to Fela’s Shrine

The French President, who was trained as a senior civil servant at the French Embassy in Lagos in 2004, seven years after Fela died, described the Shrine as a cultural and iconic hub.Presidents Buhari and Macron: Macron explains his Afrika Shrine visit

Macron, who `confessed’ that he was not a stranger to the club, said he recognised the Shrine as an importance place for lovers of African culture.

Macron revealed he had been to the Shrine before for a concert by Fela Kuti’s son, Femi. “It’s an incredible, vibrant place,” he said.

“And I think very often when you speak of the African culture in Europe, those who succeeded in Europe and in France, which is different most of the times, are not dramatically very famous in Nigeria or in Africa i mean Fela, Femi, Seun Kuti are obviously very famous in France and Europe,

"that is why I want to say with a lot of humility that I recognise the importance of this place, I recognise the place of culture in this current environment,’’ he said.

Macron note the readiness of French government to promote sport and cultural relations between Nigeria and France to solve the problem of unemployment among youths in both countries.

According to him, African Cultural Season to be hosted in France in 2020 will be inaugurated at the African Shrine tonight, while French sport initiative will be launched in Lagos on Wednesday.

He said the African Cultural Season which would provide new opportunities to youths, was being financed by the private sector in Nigeria.