Former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Timi Frank, has warned African leaders against entering into agreements that could undermine the interests of citizens following recent diplomatic engagements between France and some African countries.

Frank gave the warning in a statement released on Friday while reacting to discussions at the Africa Forward: Africa-France Partnerships for Innovation and Growth Summit attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and President Bola Tinubu in Nairobi, Kenya.

He expressed concern that some agreements reached during the summit might not translate into meaningful benefits for ordinary Africans or contribute to sustainable development across the continent.

According to him, African leaders must prioritise the welfare of their citizens in all international partnerships.

“Any agreement signed with France will only benefit the leaders themselves and not the people. Africans must reject such deals because they are like death warrants for the continent,” he said.

Frank cited countries such as Burkina Faso and Mali, which have in recent years reduced French influence within their territories.

He argued that African countries should carefully evaluate foreign partnerships to ensure they protect sovereignty and long-term national interests.

The political activist also accused France of maintaining economic arrangements that, according to him, kept some African countries dependent on Paris.

“All these years, France controlled the resources and financial systems of many African countries. They kept African money and still loaned the same money back to them. That system only promoted poverty and dependency,” he stated.

Frank urged Africans to elect leaders who would prioritise development-focused partnerships and safeguard national interests.

“Africans should reject leaders who mortgage the future of their countries for selfish gains. The continent deserves partnerships that promote development, security, and prosperity for the people,” he said.

He also called on African youths to challenge policies and agreements they believe could undermine the continent’s sovereignty.

“The youth must wake up and reject this new takeover agenda. The era where France dictates the future of Africa is gone,” he added.

Frank further advised African leaders to strengthen relations with countries such as the United States and Israel, which he claimed had shown stronger commitment to trade, technology, agriculture and security cooperation with African nations.

He also commended U.S. President Donald Trump for what he described as support for democratic governance and opposition to unconstitutional tenure extension in Africa.