Bilateral trade relations between Nigeria and Britain has reached £7.1 billion, British Deputy High Commissioner, Mr. Johnny Baxter, has said.
He made this known at the Nigeria-Britain Association (N-BA) 2024 Presidential Cocktail, which took place at his residence in Lagos.
Organised in partnership with the British Deputy High Commissioner, SCIB Nigeria & Co Limited, NEM Insurance Plc, and Sola Oyetayo & Co,, the event provided an opportunity for attendees to engage in fruitful discussions and exchange ideas.
It also explored potential collaborations and sought ways to further strengthen the bonds between Nigeria and Britain.
Baxter, in his address, highlighted the deep-rooted connections between Nigeria and Britain and emphasised the significant ties between the two nations, including the impact of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK and the strong educational and cultural exchanges.
The Envoy applauded the close bilateral trade relations between both countries, which he noted has reached £7.1 billion. He also expressed confidence in Nigeria’s economic reforms.
Earlier in his welcome address, the President of the Association, Mr. Sola Oyetayo, articulated the N-BA’s mission to strengthen the cultural ties and collaborative business relationship between the two countries.
He emphasised that 2024 marked the Association’s 55th anniversary, a significant milestone reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering collaborations and friendship.
“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.