The trade relationship between the United Kingdom and Nigeria has reached a new milestone, with commerce between the two nations now valued at £7.2 billion. This development reinforces Nigeria’s role as the UK’s second-largest trading partner in Africa.
Speaking during a media briefing on economic cooperation held in Abuja, British High Commissioner Richard Montgomery emphasized Nigeria’s growing relevance to British trade and investment strategies. He noted that Nigeria currently represents the UK’s largest export destination on the continent, calling the economic engagement a key pillar of broader diplomatic relations.
While addressing questions around the UK’s evolving immigration framework, Montgomery acknowledged the significant contributions of Nigerian professionals—especially in healthcare—but cautioned that the rising influx of migrants, estimated at approximately 2.6 million in just six months, was placing pressure on national infrastructure and services.
“Nigeria accounts for around 10% of annual visitors to the UK,” he said, adding that while legitimate travel and investment are always welcome, concerns remain over instances of fraudulent visa applications. He urged prospective visitors to ensure their documentation is accurate and complete.
On the Nigerian economy, the High Commissioner welcomed recent policy reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, noting that they have begun to make the investment landscape more appealing to international stakeholders.
Despite this progress, Montgomery voiced concern about Nigeria’s security challenges, linking them to regional instability stemming from conflicts in neighboring Sudan and Niger. He confirmed that the UK is supporting Nigeria’s security efforts through partnerships with the Office of the National Security Adviser and by funding security-related infrastructure projects.
Montgomery concluded with a call for continued cooperation and transparency in trade and migration matters, emphasizing that mutual trust is vital to the UK-Nigeria relationship moving forward.
