President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with the United Kingdom, with a particular focus on aviation, trade, and other areas of mutual benefit.
He gave the assurance on Wednesday at the State House, Abuja, while receiving a delegation from British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, alongside British Airways Commercial Officer, Mr. Colm Lacy.
Tinubu described the Nigeria–UK relationship as long-standing and productive, stressing that Nigeria attaches great importance to its strategic partnership with Britain.
Reflecting on his recent visit to the United Kingdom, the President recalled his engagement with the British Royal Family and expressed appreciation for the reception he received from King Charles III.
“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.
“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, ” he said.
He added that continued cooperation between both countries should align with shared priorities, including sustainability and Commonwealth ties.
“We also hold in high regard our relationship with His Majesty the King, His long-standing commitment to sustainability and to strengthening the Commonwealth must continue to enhance cooperation,” he stated.
Tinubu assured the delegation that Nigeria remains committed to sustaining bilateral relations and expanding opportunities for investment, trade, and shared prosperity.
He noted that the country is currently undergoing broad economic and aviation reforms aimed at meeting global standards while improving connectivity and international partnerships.
“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,” the President said.
The President also expressed appreciation for British Airways’ long presence in Nigeria, noting that the airline has played a significant role in strengthening economic and social ties between both countries.
“We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope we will continue to enhance and encourage that relationship,” he added.
Tinubu further disclosed that his administration had cleared outstanding liabilities owed to foreign airlines as part of efforts to improve investor confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
“You’ve seen that since I assumed office, the outstanding liabilities… are being resolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria,” he said.
Speaking earlier, Mr. Colm Lacy said British Airways’ operations in Nigeria date back to 1936 and have supported trade, education, tourism, and business ties between both countries.
“Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market… with strong people-to-people, business, educational, and cultural ties,” he said.
He noted that the airline continued to support Nigerian travellers and businesses by connecting them to global markets, adding that operations benefit both economies.
Lacy also commended Nigerian aviation agencies, including the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, for improving safety and operational standards.
He also praised the Central Bank of Nigeria for addressing foreign exchange challenges affecting international airlines.
Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, disclosed that British Airways now operates modern aircraft on the London–Nigeria route and complies with government policies supporting local catering services on outbound flights.
British High Commissioner Dr. Richard Montgomery described the 90-year relationship between British Airways and Nigeria as a major milestone, adding that recent UK–Nigeria engagements had produced new investment agreements.
“I know that Their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit… including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports, which we are delighted to support,” he said.
The meeting ended with both sides reaffirming commitment to stronger aviation cooperation and broader economic partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom
