The United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, concluded a three-day visit to Nigeria focused on reinforcing the UK-Nigeria Strategic Partnership.
During the visit, Lord Collins reaffirmed the UK Government’s commitment to deepening trade and investment ties with Nigeria. He engaged with senior government officials, business leaders, civil society representatives, and United Nations agencies, highlighting the UK’s long-term support for Nigeria’s prosperity, stability, and transformative growth.
A key moment was Lord Collins’ bilateral meeting with Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, where both parties pledged to strengthen economic cooperation and promote regional security. The UK’s Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi MP, also joined the discussions.
Lord Collins met with Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, focusing on enhancing parliamentary collaboration and advancing women’s participation in politics.
Commenting on the visit, Lord Collins said, “Nigeria and the UK share a rich, ambitious relationship rooted in respect. Our Strategic Partnership is central to this, and my visit focused on expanding cooperation in trade and investment to drive economic growth and prosperity for both nations.”
Discussions with United Nations representatives addressed UN system reforms, their impact on Nigeria—especially in the Northeast—and how these reforms can better support humanitarian efforts.
Lord Collins also met civil society leaders to discuss electoral integrity and governance reforms, reinforcing the UK’s commitment to democratic values and community empowerment.
Additionally, he visited Nigeria’s Anti-Kidnap Fusion Cell, a critical security initiative supported by UK expertise through the National Crime Agency and the Integrated Security Fund, aimed at enhancing local safety and combating serious crime.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr. Richard Montgomery, added, “Driving growth is central to UK foreign and development policy. Lord Collins’ visit underscores the UK’s firm commitment to shared prosperity through expanded trade and investment. We are proud to support Nigeria’s journey towards a resilient and dynamic economy.”
This visit underscores the enduring UK-Nigeria partnership, built on mutual respect, shared goals, and a vision for a prosperous future.
UK’s Minister for Africa, Lord Collins and Nig Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Yusuf Tuggar with UK Trade Envoy to Nigeria, Florence Eshalomi MP
