Nigeria to deepen diplomatic relations with UK – Tuggar
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has reaffirmed Nigeria's dedication to enhancing diplomatic ties with the United Kingdom (UK).
Tuggar conveyed this message in a statement issued on Tuesday in Abuja, during his three-day high-level visit to the UK from March 3 to 5, aimed at fostering strategic collaboration across various sectors.
In a statement released by Kimiebi Ebienfa, the Acting Spokesperson for the ministry, Tuggar identified the sectors of focus as trade, investment, technology, media, and academia, highlighting Nigeria's commitment to engaging with global partners to promote economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.
Tuggar remarked, “This visit signifies a crucial juncture in Nigeria’s foreign policy under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, reinforcing his administration’s agenda of economic diplomacy, strategic partnerships, and regional security cooperation.
“Nigeria seeks to strengthen its enduring relationship with the UK, identify new opportunities for economic advancement, and reaffirm its commitment to regional peace and stability.
“As Nigeria actively engages on the international stage, this visit emphasizes the nation’s resolve to ensure that diplomatic initiatives yield tangible benefits for national security, economic progress, and the welfare of all Nigerians.
He noted that the visit would include discussions at Chatham House regarding Nigeria’s evolving foreign policy and global ambitions, as well as technology and trade discussions at the House of Commons, focusing on Nigeria’s economic diversification, investment climate, and digital transformation.
Additionally, the agenda includes engagements with key media representatives at the BBC House in London to discuss Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities and global positioning, as well as meetings with JP Morgan and British International Investment (BII) to explore avenues for financial and economic collaboration.
The initiative aims to draw capital investments, enhance investment prospects, fortify Nigeria's financial sector, engage in discussions with high-ranking UK government officials, and promote collaboration on security and intelligence-sharing to combat extremism and instability in West Africa.
"This will broaden business and investment avenues to bolster Nigeria's economic development and job creation, while also reinforcing partnerships in education, research, and technology between Nigerian and UK academic institutions," he stated.
