Nigeria-UK Trade Hits £7.3bn — British Envoy
Bilateral trade between Nigeria and the United Kingdom has risen to £7.3bn, reflecting growing economic ties between both countries, the British High Commission has said.
The British High Commission disclosed this on Thursday at a reception in Abuja to mark the 78th birthday of King Charles III and celebrate the strategic partnership between the UK and Nigeria.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the BHC in Abuja, the High Commissioner, Pete Vowles, speaking at the reception said the annual celebration provided an opportunity to recognise not only the monarch but also the relationship between the two countries and the people sustaining it.
“The King’s Birthday is an opportunity not only to celebrate His Majesty, but also the remarkable relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria and the people who make that relationship thrive.
“Our partnership with Nigeria is a modern and forward-looking one. Whether through trade, education, innovation, security or culture, we are working together not only on today’s priorities, but on tomorrow’s opportunities,” Vowles said.
The commission said the reception followed a significant year in bilateral relations, particularly the State Visit to Nigeria in March, which it said demonstrated the depth of the relationship and the importance of people-to-people connections.
It added that the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership was strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, education, defence and security, migration and development.
According to the commission, cultural, family and diaspora links between the two countries also remain important in bringing their citizens closer.
The reception featured an art gallery showcasing connections between the UK and Nigeria, while providing an opportunity for representatives from government, business, culture and civil society to explore areas of collaboration.
The commission said both countries were committed to building on their existing relationship to create greater opportunities, prosperity and lasting benefits for their citizens.
The event, which was themed, “GREAT Partners for the Future,” brought together Nigerian government officials, business leaders, diplomats and civil society representatives.
