‘UK-Nigeria trade hits £7.3bn’

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 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 commission in Abuja, the British 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,” Vowles said.

“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.”

The commission stated that the reception followed a significant year in bilateral relations, particularly the state visit to Nigeria in March, which 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.

Cultural, family, and diaspora links between the two countries also remain important in bringing their citizens closer, the commission noted.

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.

Both countries are committed to building on their existing relationship to create greater opportunities, prosperity, and lasting benefits for their citizens, the commission said.

The event, themed “GREAT Partners for the Future,” brought together Nigerian government officials, business leaders, diplomats, and civil society representatives.