President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with the United Kingdom, with particular emphasis on the aviation sector and broader investment cooperation.
He gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from British Airways at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy.
Tinubu said Nigeria places high value on its longstanding strategic relationship with the United Kingdom, describing the partnership as one that has evolved over decades to promote trade, investment, and mutual development.
The President also reflected on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, noting the reception he received from the British Royal Family as a demonstration of the strength of bilateral ties.
“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,” he said.
He added that cooperation with the UK and British institutions would continue to align with Nigeria’s national priorities and reform agenda.
Tinubu further assured the delegation that his administration remains committed to aviation sector reforms aimed at meeting global standards and improving connectivity between both countries.
“Nigeria is still going through the 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 trade and partnership in this sector,” he said.
The President also disclosed that his administration had begun clearing outstanding financial obligations owed to foreign airlines, noting that the Central Bank of Nigeria was actively addressing such liabilities to restore investor confidence.
He reiterated Nigeria’s appreciation for the British Government’s long-standing support, particularly in trade and investment.
“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.
In his remarks, Colm Lacy said British Airways has maintained a strong presence in Nigeria since 1936, serving generations of passengers and facilitating trade, education, and tourism between both countries.
“Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market with which we share strong people-to-people, business, educational, and cultural ties,” he said.
Lacy also commended Nigerian aviation regulators and agencies for improving safety and operational standards in the sector, as well as the Central Bank of Nigeria for addressing foreign exchange-related concerns affecting international carriers.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, noted that British Airways now operates modern aircraft on the London–Nigeria route and has complied with government policy requiring international airlines to serve local Nigerian cuisine on outbound flights.
UK High Commissioner Richard Montgomery also expressed satisfaction with the deepening ties between both countries, noting that recent bilateral engagements have resulted in investment agreements, including plans to support the rehabilitation of Lagos ports with UK financing and technical participation.
The meeting underscored renewed diplomatic and economic cooperation between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, particularly in aviation, trade, and infrastructure development.
