Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic relations with the United Kingdom, particularly in aviation and other mutually beneficial sectors.
Receiving a delegation from the British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, President Tinubu described the long-standing partnership between Nigeria and Britain as strategic and valuable.
He said that the transformation and strengthening of relations over the past 90 years was a milestone worthy of celebration.
The statement issued by Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, stated that Tinubu recalled his recent state visit to the UK and the reception accorded him by King Charles III.
“We hold in high regard our relationship with His Majesty the King,” he said.
Tinubu assured that the cooperation between both countries would continue to create opportunities for growth, investment and shared prosperity.
Tinubu also acknowledged the role of British Airways in fostering trade and people-to-people ties between both nations.
According to him, Nigeria is implementing reforms to strengthen the aviation industry and broader economy.
“Nigeria is still going through reforms and transformation of our aviation industry and every aspect of our economy,” he said, adding that one of the earliest achievements of his administration was settling outstanding liabilities owed to foreign airlines operating in Nigeria.
He said the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) had helped resolve issues affecting bilateral business relations.
In his remarks, the British Airways Commercial Officer, Mr. Colm Lacy, said that the airline had served generations of Nigerians for nine decades.
“Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing and valued market,” he said.
Lacy commended Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Mr. Festus Keyamo, aviation agencies and the CBN for improving confidence in the sector.
Earlier, Keyamo explained that the British Airways now operates brand new aircraft on the London-Nigeria route.
He added that the airline has fully complied with the Federal Government’s policy encouraging local catering services on outbound international flights.
GIK/APA