Nigerian and UK to Deepen Cooperation in Trade, Democracy
In a significant development, the Nigerian government has revealed that the country’s trade with the United Kingdom has reached an impressive £7.2 billion in 2024.
This was disclosed by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, during a meeting with a UK parliamentary delegation led by Under Secretary of State (Africa) for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, Lord Collins.
The meeting, which was attended by top Nigerian parliamentarians, including House Leader, Prof Julius Ihonvbere, and Chairman, House Committee on Foreign Affairs, Oluwole Oke, highlighted the need for strengthened partnership between the two nations.
Kalu emphasized the importance of cooperation in areas such as democracy, trade, and citizens’ welfare, citing Nigeria’s growing economy, which recorded a 3.4% growth rate in 2024.
The UK delegation was informed of Nigeria’s efforts to increase women’s representation in the country’s parliament, with Kalu, who is also the Chairman of the House Committee on Constitution Amendment, pledging to support the Special Seats Bill.
This bill aims to create additional seats for women in the National Assembly, which currently has less than 5% female representation.
Kalu also highlighted the existing partnership agreements between the two countries, valued at approximately £272.6 million, which cover critical sectors such as governance, climate change, education, and health.
The Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, signed in February 2024, is expected to strengthen ties in areas like legal services, financial technology, and renewable energy.
In response, Lord Collins expressed the UK’s commitment to building partnerships that benefit both nations, emphasizing the importance of parliamentary contacts in strengthening the relationship.
The two leaders later held a closed-door session to continue their discussions.
The meeting also touched on issues of economic reforms, technology, and immigration, with Kalu calling for a framework that recognizes the contributions of Nigerian nationals and facilitates the movement of skilled professionals.
The Deputy Speaker also highlighted Nigeria’s digital special economic zones, which aim to position the country as a leading technology hub in Africa.
Other notable attendees at the meeting included Deputy Minority Whip, George Ozodibobi, and Chairperson, Nigeria-Kenya Friendly Parliamentary Group, Fatima Talba.
The discussions are expected to pave the way for increased cooperation between Nigeria and the UK, with a focus on mutual benefits and improved welfare for citizens of both countries.
