In a bid to strengthen ties and promote economic growth, President Bola Tinubu has called on the United Kingdom’s government to enhance its partnership with Nigeria by increasing investments across various sectors.
The call was made during a meeting between President Tinubu and James Cleverly, the UK Foreign Secretary, at the President’s office, as reported by Ajuri Ngelale, media aide to the President.
One of the key topics discussed during the meeting was the pressing issue of energy transition and the potential for economic advancement in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
President Tinubu urged the UK, and the Western world at large, to support Nigeria in mobilizing investment for gas pipeline projects that would transport gas from Nigeria to Europe. Tinubu emphasized that gas could serve as a clean and acceptable alternative energy source, and he urged the UK to assist with the necessary financing and facilitate the required investments.
Furthermore, President Tinubu stressed the importance of collaboration between the UK and Nigeria to create a competitive, technologically advanced economy that addresses the needs of all citizens.
He expressed his satisfaction with the UK’s willingness to work with Nigeria and Africa, while also urging them to do more to help the continent develop a robust and competitive economy.
Turning to matters of security, peace, and stability in West Africa, President Tinubu highlighted that the region’s security challenges are exacerbated by the presence of unstable governments. He specifically drew attention to the concerning situations in Niger, the Sahel region, and the Horn of Africa, where terrorist groups are finding refuge.
Tinubu appealed to the UK government to support Nigeria in its efforts to secure West Africa, forging a dynamic partnership in both security and economic development to prevent terrorists from using the continent as a haven.
In response, James Cleverly commended President Tinubu for his bold and decisive actions in removing fuel subsidies and addressing multiple foreign exchange markets, acknowledging that these measures would drive development despite the initial difficulties.
Cleverly also shared details of his meetings with entrepreneurs, technologists, and young creatives in Lagos, emphasizing the UK’s commitment to being a long-term strategic partner of Nigeria and Africa.
The UK Foreign Secretary expressed his keen interest in encouraging more UK investments in Nigeria. He applauded the country’s youthful and educated population, believing that with their energy and talents, along with Nigeria’s abundant resources, the nation could become a net exporter of energy and agricultural products.
assured President Tinubu that the UK would remain dedicated to its partnership with Nigeria and Africa for decades to come.
Lastly, in discussing the political situation in the Republic of Niger, James Cleverly offered his government’s support for the decisions of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and President Tinubu’s leadership in promoting democracy and stability in the region.
He emphasized that a peaceful and prosperous Africa is in the UK’s national interest, recognizing the undeniable connection between peace and security.
The meeting between President Bola Tinubu and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly highlights the importance of fostering stronger relationships between Nigeria and the UK, with a focus on collaborative investments and initiatives that will drive economic growth and enhance security in West Africa.
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