Nigeria, UK forge new bilateral ties amidst promising economic prospects

Nigeria, UK forge new bilateral ties amidst promising economic prospects

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja 

The United Kingdom and Nigeria are gearing up to strengthen their longstanding bilateral relationship, focusing on mutual growth and innovation. 

This initiative forms the cornerstone of UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy’s inaugural visit to Africa, emphasizing a commitment to building a productive partnership with the continent.

Discussing with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Lammy noted the significance of the UK-Nigeria relationship. 

“It underlies the importance of the relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria. In so many ways, the people-to-people connections, the deep diasporan community across the UK, the historic and cultural ties are second to none,” Lammy remarked, highlighting the depth of the connections that bind the two nations.

Lauding Nigeria’s cultural richness and innovative spirit, Lammy noted, “There’s a real dynamism when you arrive in this country. There’s a sense of it being the beating heart in so many ways of the continent of Africa. So it’s very exciting to be here.” He expressed optimism about the prospects of a strategic partnership that would be crucial for both nations amid challenging geopolitical landscapes.

As part of the visit, Lammy launched a pivotal report in Lagos titled, “From Minerals to Manufacturing: Africa’s Competitiveness in Global Battery Supply Chains.” The report accentuates Africa’s potential to transition from merely extracting raw minerals to refining and manufacturing batteries, tapping into the continent’s vast resources for economic advancement.

“The report projects that just one high-quality refinery per mineral could bring an estimated USD 6.8 billion in revenue and create approximately 3,500 jobs across Africa, strengthening the continent’s presence in the global battery market,” Lammy detailed, illustrating the economic opportunities available if African nations fully harness their potential.

In his earlier remarks, Tuggar echoed Lammy’s sentiments, advocating for leveraging the unique advantages both nations bring to the table. 

“We feel that this is a very good beginning in the relationship between both of us, but of course the relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria goes way back. And we have some major strides that we will be announcing at the end of this engagement,” he stated, referencing their constructive dialogues in New York.

As part of the UK’s new strategy for Africa, Lammy is set to embark on a five-month consultation process aimed at ensuring that African voices are integral to the formation of policies impacting the continent. This approach reflects an intention to cater to the diverse ambitions of the 54 African nations, ensuring relationships are based on mutual respect and partnership.