Tinubu reaffirms commitment to stronger Nigeria-UK economic relations as British Airways marks 90 years of operations.
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic relations with the United Kingdom, particularly in the aviation sector and other mutually beneficial areas.
The President gave the assurance on Wednesday when he met with a delegation from British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, and the Commercial Officer of British Airways, Mr. Colm Lacy, at the State House, Abuja.
Tinubu, while highlighting the longstanding and productive partnership between both countries, noted that Nigeria places great value on its strategic relationship with Britain.
The President particularly reflected on his recent visit to the United Kingdom and the reception he received from the Royal Family.
He assured the delegation that the partnership would continue to create opportunities for growth, investment, and shared prosperity.
According to the President: “It is a very great joy to share with you this afternoon. The transformation and strengthening of our relationship over the past 90 years is a milestone worthy of celebration. And I still relish the memory of my last visit to Great Britain and the wonderful reception I received from His Majesty King Charles III. I will forever cherish that memory.
“We also hold in high regard our relationship with His Majesty the King. His long-standing commitment to sustainability and to strengthening the Commonwealth, particularly the relationship between Nigeria and Great Britain, must continue to enhance cooperation that aligns with our own national priorities.
“I assure you we will continue to do that, and this engagement confirms the bilateral relations that we have enjoyed over the years. Our forebears wanted us to continue.”
Tinubu acknowledged the critical role of British Airways in fostering economic and people-to-people connections between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, noting that Nigeria is undergoing reforms to strengthen the economy and state institutions.
“Nigeria is still going through reforms and transformation of our aviation industry and every aspect of our economy. We must meet global standards and encourage people-to-people connections while promoting the essence of trade and partnership in this sector,” he said.
The President also expressed appreciation to the British Government for the numerous business and investment opportunities extended to Nigeria over the years.
“We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope we will continue to enhance and encourage that relationship for a stronger and more rewarding partnership,” he added.
Tinubu further informed the delegation that one of the earliest achievements of his administration was settling outstanding liabilities owed to airlines operating in Nigeria.
“You’ve seen that since I assumed office, the outstanding liabilities and other hiccups that are hindrances to our relationship are being resolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria, and we hope to strengthen all of that,” he said.
In his remarks, Mr. Colm Lacy traced British Airways’ long-standing relationship with Nigeria, stating that the airline has served generations of Nigerians for the past 90 years, facilitating trade, investment, and opportunities between both countries.
“Our relationship began in 1936 and has journeyed across generations. Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market in a country with which we share strong people-to-people, business, educational, and cultural ties.
“Every day our services support Nigerian entrepreneurs, students, families, and tourists connecting from Nigeria to the United Kingdom and all over the world, helping in trade, investment, and opportunities in both directions,” he said.
Lacy commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as well as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airports Authority for their professionalism, which he said has enhanced safety and credibility in the aviation sector.
He also praised the Central Bank of Nigeria for its commitment to resolving foreign exchange issues and restoring confidence among foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, informed the gathering that British Airways now operates brand new aircraft on the London–Nigeria route.
He also noted that the airline has complied with the Federal Government’s policy of supporting local caterers by serving Nigerian dishes on international outbound flights.
Also speaking, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, expressed delight at the 90-year relationship between British Airways and Nigeria.
He thanked President Tinubu for his recent state visit to the United Kingdom, during which several business agreements were signed to boost trade and economic ties.
“I know that Their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit. And I hope that your excellency and your team feel satisfied about the substance, not just the ceremony, that some very big investment deals were agreed, including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports, which we are delighted to support with financing and UK content,” he said.
