Bella Disu, a renowned Nigerian business executive, arts enthusiast, and philanthropist, has shared a moving reflection on her recent visit to Paris, which marked a significant moment in her family’s rich and enduring relationship with France.
In her statement, Disu recalled her childhood memories of visiting Paris with her family and how these early experiences have evolved over the years. “The past two days in Paris have been the stuff that dreams are made of!” she expressed. “I remember as a little girl coming to Paris with my family, and over the years, accompanying my father on his business trips. These trips were not just about work; they were the beginning of a strong and fruitful business partnership that saw us align with global giants such as Total, BNP Paribas, and Alcatel, to name just a few.”
The success of these collaborations laid the groundwork for the establishment of the Alliance Française | Mike Adenuga Center in Lagos, an important milestone in the cultural and business ties between Nigeria and France. This center was inaugurated in 2018 by none other than His Excellency, President Emmanuel Macron, marking a pivotal moment in both cultural diplomacy and the long-standing relationship between the two countries.
Disu’s family has long been celebrated for its contributions to the Nigeria-France partnership. In 2018, her father was awarded the esteemed Légion d’Honneur, France’s highest national honor, in recognition of his business and philanthropic efforts. Bella herself became the youngest-ever recipient of the prestigious National Honor, Chevalier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, in 2019. This honor acknowledged her remarkable achievements in the arts and her advocacy for the cultural exchange between Nigeria and France.
Reflecting on the significance of France’s partnership with Nigeria, Disu said, “Choosing France as a partner while we continue to contribute to our great nation Nigeria is a decision we will always be thankful for. The synergies fostered through these partnerships have played a major role in advancing both our business and cultural interests on the global stage.”
Disu also extended her heartfelt thanks to both Nigerian and French leadership for their continued support and collaboration. “Thank you to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu & Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu, and to His Excellency, President Emmanuel Macron and Madame Brigitte Macron for a splendid evening at the State dinner held at the Élysée Palace. Your leadership and commitment to strengthening the ties between our two countries continue to inspire and create valuable opportunities for mutual growth,” she concluded.
Through her work and family’s legacy, Bella Disu remains an influential figure in both the business and cultural spheres, advocating for deeper collaboration between Nigeria and France as they continue to build on shared values and aspirations.
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