President Bola Tinubu held high-level talks with United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Thursday, marking the second day of his strategic working visit to the UK. The meeting, held at 10 Downing Street, is designed to deepen political, economic, and security cooperation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Starmer received President Tinubu at the official residence and office of the Prime Minister to discuss an expansive agenda. Central to these talks is the proposed rehabilitation of Nigeria’s critical maritime infrastructure, specifically the Lagos ports complex.
The bilateral engagement is expected to result in a significant expansion of diplomatic and economic ties. According to briefings from the President’s delegation, the meeting will culminate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
A primary highlight of the visit is the signing of a landmark £746 million financing agreement. Facilitated by UK Export Finance (UKEF) in partnership with the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) and the Federal Ministry of Finance, the deal will fund the comprehensive refurbishment of the Lagos Port Complex (Apapa Quays) and the Tin Can Island Port Complex.
High-Level Diplomatic and Cultural Engagement
Beyond infrastructure, the discussions encompass the digital economy, regional security, and cultural exchange. Following the diplomatic sessions, President Tinubu will serve as the Guest of Honour at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, an event showcasing the nation’s contemporary arts and heritage.
The President is also scheduled to attend a reception with prominent Nigerian and British business leaders, alongside members of the diaspora community, to foster private-sector collaboration.
Nigeria’s Strategic Delegation
The President is accompanied by a high-powered delegation to ensure comprehensive engagement across multiple sectors. Key members include Senate President Godswill Akpabio; Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake; and Minister of Information and National Orientation, Idris Mohammed.
The strategic team also features Bianca Ojukwu, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs; Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy; and Dr Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
