President Bola Tinubu has called for stronger economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, saying both nations must deepen trade ties and build on their longstanding relationship to tackle global challenges.
Speaking during a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street, Tinubu noted that both countries are facing difficult economic realities and must work together to improve the welfare of their citizens.
“What we are facing is not a small challenge. The entire world is under pressure. Nigeria is not immune, and neither is Britain,” the President said.
He added that his priority remains the stability of Nigeria’s economy and the well-being of its people, stressing the need for collaboration to manage economic volatility.
“My concern is the economy, the welfare of our people, and how we can work together to improve livelihoods and address these challenges,” he said.
Tinubu also highlighted broader issues affecting Nigeria, including terrorism and the impact of climate change, noting that these challenges require stronger international partnerships.
“We are dealing with terrorism and climate-related challenges as the largest country in West Africa. Through our bilateral relationship, we will explore how Britain can help strengthen this partnership and collaboration,” he added.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Starmer welcomed the Nigerian leader, describing the visit as historic and an opportunity to take relations between both countries to a new level.
He emphasised the long-standing ties between Nigeria and the UK, including strong people-to-people connections that continue to enrich British society.
“We already work closely on the economy, defence, and security, but today gives us the chance to deepen that cooperation, especially with new agreements on exports,” Starmer said.
A major highlight of the visit was the signing of a £746 million financing agreement involving Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance, aimed at supporting key infrastructure projects.
Tinubu’s visit, hosted at the invitation of King Charles III, also featured a ceremonial welcome and a state banquet at Windsor Castle, marking the first such visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK in nearly a decade.
