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Nigerian President Bola Tinubu addressed the pressing security and climate challenges his country faces during his first state visit to the UK in 37 years.
Meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer at Downing Street on Thursday, Tinubu said that Nigeria, like many parts of the world, is grappling with terrorism and the adverse effects of climate change.
“What we are facing is not a small challenge. Currently, the entire world is challenged,” Tinubu remarked.
He stressed that both Nigeria and Britain are not immune to these global crises, emphasising how Nigeria continues to be plagued by terrorism, notably from insurgents who have been active since 2009.
Tinubu’s comments came just after a devastating suicide bombing in northeastern Nigeria, which claimed the lives of at least 23 people.
In his meeting with Starmer, Tinubu noted the long-standing relationship between the two nations, highlighting shared histories and mutual benefits in areas like trade, aid, and defence. Starmer reciprocated the sentiment, expressing the importance of the relationship, saying,
“The long and shared history between our countries is obvious and much valued by us.” Both leaders agreed on the ambition to deepen the partnership between their nations.
This state visit has already borne fruit for trade, with British Steel securing a £70-million contract for port redevelopment in Nigeria. The deal with Hitech Construction Africa Ltd. will involve the supply of 120,000 tonnes of steel, marking one of British Steel’s largest-ever export orders.
During his time in the UK, Tinubu and his wife were treated to a state banquet hosted by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle. Their visit also included ceremonial engagements, such as a carriage ride and inspection of a guard of honour.
This marks a significant diplomatic moment, with the last Nigerian state visit to the UK taking place in 1989. The historic visit underscores the growing importance of Nigerian-British relations, with both leaders aiming to solidify and expand the partnership on multiple fronts.
