Bilateral trade between Nigeria and the United Kingdom has reached £7.1 billion, according to British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Johnny Baxter.
Speaking at the Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA) 2024 Presidential Cocktail held at his residence in Lagos, Mr. Baxter highlighted the strong ties between both nations, underscoring the influence of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK, as well as robust educational and cultural exchanges.
The event, which was organized in collaboration with the British Deputy High Commission, SCIB Nigeria & Co Limited, NEM Insurance Plc, and Sola Oyetayo & Co, offered attendees the opportunity to discuss potential partnerships and explore ways to further enhance relations between Nigeria and Britain.
In his remarks, Mr. Baxter praised the close trade relations between the two countries, noting that their trade value had reached £7.1 billion. He also expressed optimism about Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms.
Earlier, the President of the N-BA, Mr. Sola Oyetayo, welcomed attendees and reaffirmed the Association’s mission to foster cultural ties and business partnerships between the two countries. He also celebrated the Association’s 55th anniversary, emphasizing its continued dedication to building lasting collaborations and friendships.
“The Association’s achievements included supporting over 300 entrepreneurs and students since 2023,” Oyetayo noted.
He announced the launch of the N-BA secretariat building project, which he said “symbolises the N-BA’s dedication to promoting friendship between Nigeria and Britain and also serves as the hub of all the Association’s activities.”
The N-BA’s Patron, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, stressed the significance of the N-BA in strengthening Nigeria-UK relations.
Highlighting extensive ties in education, trade, and culture, he praised the N-BA’s role as a vital one, and shared personal anecdotes to illustrate cultural differences.
In her goodwill message the Minister of Tourism, Mrs. Lola Ade-John, represented by her Special Adviser on Policy and Legal Services, Ms. Jibike Teniola, praised the N-BA for its role in fostering cultural and national connections.
She highlighted its impact in promoting cultural exchange and business partnerships.
The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu highlighted the strong partnership between the State and the Association, while commending its efforts in fostering cultural, social, and educational connections.
Other distinguished guests at the event were N-BA Vice President and Director of the British Council in Nigeria, Mrs. Lucy Pearson; Special Adviser on Investment to Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Sola Arobieke; diplomats from the German, Danish, Guinean and Liberian missions, as well as key government officials from both Nigeria and Britain, leaders of prominent multinationals operating in Nigeria, and members of the N-BA.
