President Bola Tinubu has pledged Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening partnership agreements with the United Kingdom in areas critical to citizens’ livelihoods, including arts, culture, trade, and security. Tinubu made these remarks on Monday during a meeting with UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, David Lammy, at the State House in Abuja.
In a statement shared by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Tinubu expressed his administration’s support for a UK-Nigeria partnership geared toward growth. “I am happy that Nigeria is your first port of call,” Tinubu said, acknowledging the long-standing historical ties between the two nations. “The challenge we face now is a call to promote unity and inclusivity,” he added, noting the shared values that have characterized Nigeria-UK relations over the years.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of the UK’s involvement in African affairs, especially in conflict-ridden regions such as Sudan. He highlighted Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to address security challenges in West Africa, which have led to the country accommodating displaced individuals from Mali and Burkina Faso. “We are urging Britain to pay more attention to some African countries, like Sudan, apart from Ukraine. Humanity dictates that you pay attention to some of these issues, and we are ready to collaborate with you,” he urged.
The President noted that Nigeria’s recent economic reforms were designed for long-term growth, fostering a more stable investment environment and economic resilience. He also expressed gratitude to King Charles III for the hospitality extended to him during his visit to Buckingham Palace in September.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy expressed enthusiasm for strengthening UK-Nigeria relations, citing shared values within the Commonwealth. He conveyed Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s commitment to Africa’s development and economic growth, underscoring the need for new strategic partnerships to address modern challenges. Lammy remarked, “Our countries have the strongest relationships built over many years. The Prime Minister hopes to see and ensure changes in our relations. Economic growth is the bedrock of peace and security.”
Commenting on Nigeria’s economic reforms, Lammy stated that Nigeria’s macroeconomic performance would significantly impact investor confidence, enhancing the country’s long-term security and prosperity.
Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar shared that recent agreements with the UK focus on key areas: economic growth and job creation, enhanced security, migration and home affairs, modernized partnerships, and strengthened people-to-people ties. Tuggar also noted that both countries had earlier signed a trade and investment agreement, which is expected to deepen economic cooperation and support Nigeria’s development objectives.
This renewed partnership underscores a mutual commitment to fostering economic stability, security, and collaborative growth between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, with an eye on long-term prosperity for both nations.
