Tinubu vows deeper Nigeria-UK ties as British Airways marks 90 years
…Says reforms, aviation partnerships key to growth …Airline lauds Nigeria’s improving business climate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its economic and diplomatic relations with
…Says reforms, aviation partnerships key to growth
…Airline lauds Nigeria’s improving business climate
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening its economic and diplomatic relations with the United Kingdom, declaring that deeper cooperation, particularly in aviation, will drive growth, investment and shared prosperity.
The President gave the assurance while receiving a delegation from British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, at the State House, Abuja.
The meeting coincided with the airline’s 90th anniversary of operations in Nigeria.
Tinubu, who reflected on the longstanding bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, said the partnership has evolved into a strategic alliance that must continue to be nurtured.
According to a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu said “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 recalled his recent state visit to the UK, where he was hosted by King Charles III, noting that the experience reinforced the importance of sustaining strong ties between both countries.
“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,” Tinubu added.
The President emphasised that Nigeria values its relationship with Britain, particularly in areas that align with national development priorities, including trade, investment and institutional reforms.
According to him, ongoing reforms across the aviation sector and the broader economy are aimed at meeting global standards, boosting investor confidence and enhancing connectivity.
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“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 while promoting trade and partnership,” he said.
Tinubu also disclosed that one of the early actions of his administration was the resolution of longstanding financial obligations owed to international airlines, a move he said has helped restore confidence in Nigeria’s aviation market.
“You’ve seen that since I assumed office, outstanding liabilities and other hindrances to our relationship are being resolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria,” he stated.
He expressed appreciation to the British Government for sustained business and investment opportunities extended to Nigeria, pledging continued collaboration for mutual benefit.
“We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope to enhance and encourage that relationship for a stronger and more rewarding partnership,” the President said.
In his remarks, Lacy described Nigeria as one of the airline’s most important markets, noting that the relationship, which began in 1936, has spanned generations.
“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 added that the airline’s operations have consistently supported Nigerian entrepreneurs, students and families, while facilitating trade and investment between both countries.
Lacy commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as well as aviation agencies, for maintaining professionalism and safety standards in the sector.
He also lauded the Central Bank of Nigeria for addressing foreign exchange challenges affecting airlines, noting that the development has helped restore confidence among foreign carriers.
Earlier, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development told the gathering that British Airways now operates brand new aircraft on the London-Nigerian route.
Keyamo also said the airline had fully complied with the federal government's policy to support local caterers by serving local dishes on international outbound flights.
Also speaking, the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, expressed delight at the 90-year relationship between British Airways and Nigeria.
The envoy also thanked the President for his successful state visit to the United Kingdom, during which several business agreements were signed to boost trade and economic ties between the two nations.
“I know that their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit. And I hope that your excellency and your team feel satisfied about the substance, not just the ceremony, that some very big investment deals were agreed, including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports, which we are delighted to support with financing and UK content,” he said.
