On Monday in Abuja, President Bola Tinubu affirmed Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with the United Kingdom, particularly in sectors that directly affect citizens’ quality of life, such as arts, culture, trade, and security.
The President made this statement while hosting the UK Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Affairs, Rt. Hon. David Lammy, at the State House in Abuja.
Tinubu, in a statement released by his spokesperson, Bayo Onanuga, conveyed the administration’s intent to foster growth through this collaboration.
“I am happy that Nigeria is your first port of call. We have come a long way with our shared history. The challenge we face now is a call to promote unity and inclusivity. Britain and Nigeria have a long history, and we have always cherished the relationship,” the President noted.
The President encouraged the UK to expand its engagement with African countries, especially regarding humanitarian crises in areas such as Sudan.
“We are faced with security challenges in West Africa, and we have been receiving displaced persons into the country, some from Mali and Burkina Faso. We are doing our best to bring peace,” he emphasized.
In addressing the UK’s role, Tinubu added, “We are urging Britain to pay more attention to some African countries, like Sudan, apart from Ukraine. I think humanity dictates that you pay attention to some of these issues. We are ready to collaborate with you. Britain should do more to bring peace and stability to that part of Africa.”
During the meeting, President Tinubu also expressed gratitude to King Charles III for his warm reception during his recent visit to London, underscoring the strength of relations between the two nations.
Secretary Lammy shared his commitment to advancing relations, emphasizing that the UK Prime Minister, Keir Stammer, prioritizes Africa’s growth and development. “It is wonderful, truly wonderful to be here in Nigeria, especially with you in person,” Lammy said, adding that “Our countries have the strongest relationships built over many years. Shared values in our history by the Commonwealth, which has been incredibly strong, dynamic, and vibrant across our countries.”
Lammy praised Nigeria’s economic reforms, noting, “Your macro-economic performance is important to Nigeria’s long-term prosperity and security and at any time clearly will make a difference in investor confidence in the economy.”
In addition, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, confirmed that agreements had been signed to bolster cooperation in areas like job creation, enhanced security, migration, and strengthening people-to-people links. Earlier in the year, both nations signed an agreement on trade and investment, further solidifying their partnership.
