Marc Fonbaustier, the French Ambassador to Nigeria, has voiced his significant admiration for Nigerian culture, characterizing it as a "richness of the Nigerian heritage."
In an exclusive interview, Mr. Fonbaustier shared that Nigeria's blend of cultures, its artistic expressions, traditional attire, and renowned hospitality have deeply impressed him.
He specifically mentioned his visit to the Kaduna Museum, stating, "I love the pieces of art that I saw. Some of them, for me, are really one of the best things you can see in Africa."
The ambassador also conveyed his intrigue regarding the cultural significance of various hats worn by different ethnic groups across Nigeria.
"Nigerian men wear hats, and I would need a kind of description of what the hat means exactly in terms of geographical origin and social position. The hat speaks," he explained.
Describing his two-year tenure as ambassador in Nigeria as both "demanding and rewarding," Mr. Fonbaustier characterized Nigeria as a complex nation.
"It is very rich. It’s very massive. For a newcomer, it takes time to get used to certain traditions and rules. And number two, it’s rewarding because there is one thing which strikes me, and I’m very sensitive to it as a diplomat and by personality. It’s the warmth of the people.
"I have been welcomed by all the people in your country. People are so nice, warm, and charming. This is part of your tradition of hospitality. You don’t see the foreigner as a threat but as an opportunity to meet and do something together, and I love that about your country. I think this is what is at the core, the deep soul of Nigeria," he stated.
The ambassador also acknowledged the pervasive influence of Afrobeat music.
"There was this Fela Kuti exhibition in Lagos that we have just opened. I’m so proud that France can celebrate such an iconic figure of music worldwide, not only in Nigeria. So I just listened to a song I like again. It’s Unknown Soldiers.
"I think it’s a very good one. I’ve heard one song by Tony Allen. Tony Allen is really great. Ejo, I don’t know if you know it. Very good," he remarked.
"So Afrobeat, yes, I like it," he affirmed.
Regarding Nigerian cuisine, Mr. Fonbaustier mentioned trying pepper soup but found it too spicy for his palate.
"Honestly, it was a bit harsh on my stomach. I will do it again if it’s a bit milder. It’s really delicious.
"It’s very, very nutritious, but also very tasty. So I like it. I also like the sweets Alkaki and Dublan, which you can see at Hausa Sweets. It’s pastries. Alkaki and Dublan, it’s called.
"It reminds me of Moroccan pastries from Northern Africa. It’s very sweet. You see, I try to keep the balance between the South and the North," he concluded.
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