The British High Commission in Nigeria has announced the arrival of Kemi Badenoch, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade from the United Kingdom.
In a recent social media post on Sunday, the commission stated that Badenoch’s visit is primarily focused on enhancing trade and investment collaborations between the United Kingdom and Nigeria.
During her time in Nigeria, she will engage with various businesses and entrepreneurs, fostering connections and exploring opportunities for mutual growth.
“We are pleased to welcome Secretary of State for Business & Trade @KemiBadenoch to Nigeria,” the British High Commission said.
“During her visit, she will meet with businesses and entrepreneurs, tour projects & unlock opportunities to strengthen UK-Nigeria trade & investment partnerships.”
Speaking on her visit, Jonny Baxter, head of the UK Mission to Nigeria, the African country “is the UK’s 39th largest trading partner with a total trade figure of £7 billion in goods & services. We look forward to unlocking new opportunities through this visit”.
Furthermore, Richard Montgomery, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, emphasized that Nigeria holds a significant position as one of the United Kingdom’s key allies in Africa.
In his statement, Montgomery affirmed the UK’s dedication to assisting Nigeria in discovering fresh avenues for investment. This commitment involves facilitating increased UK and international investments through London, which in turn leads to job creation in both nations.
“Recent big and bold reforms by the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Central Bank are boosting optimism amongst international investors that the country is on the right path and are creating the conditions for growth,” Montgomery said.
Badenoch’s visit came after James Cleverly, the United Kingdom’s foreign secretary, visited on August 2, 2023.
During his visit, Cleverly discussed the British government’s intentions to enhance multilateral trade reforms in order to support Nigeria’s economic growth.
Cleverly emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s economic measures, such as the elimination of fuel subsidies and the unification of exchange rates, will stimulate investment and contribute to driving growth.
