Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has described the recent trip by Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the United Kingdom as a significant turning point in bilateral relations between both nations.
Her position was contained in a statement released on Monday in Abuja by Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media in the ministry. The statement followed the outcomes of the president’s historic state visit, during which he was accompanied by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, as guests of the British monarchy on March 18 and 19. The visit also featured a high-level meeting with British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, at Downing Street, the headquarters of the UK government.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that the visit, hosted by King Charles III, showcased the full extent of British hospitality and led to several major agreements. Among these was a £746 million port development partnership, alongside strengthened cooperation in areas such as trade, security, and technology. She added that both countries held discussions focused on deepening collaboration in tackling terrorism and instability, improving digital border systems, and advancing shared priorities in regional security.
She further explained that both nations are working towards implementing the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP), a framework designed to move their relationship beyond historical ties into a more contemporary and mutually beneficial economic alliance.
Highlighting the broader impact of the visit, the minister pointed out that it opened up investment prospects across key sectors including mining, energy, infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and fintech. She said these developments not only enhanced Nigeria’s global image but also reinforced its position as a strategic partner to the UK within Africa.
According to her, Nigeria’s rich heritage and cultural identity were also prominently displayed on the global stage. At the Tate Modern, an exhibition themed “Nigeria’s Modernism” showcased the creativity and resilience of Nigerians. During the event, President Tinubu commended the contributions of Nigerians driving growth in the country’s creative industry.
Quoting the president, she said the exhibition reflects a cultural revolution, telling the story of a generation of Nigerians who, in the mid-20th century, chose to define their own identity rather than be marginalised. He also applauded the ingenuity of Nigerian creatives for producing enduring works that blend traditional and modern influences.
Meanwhile, the UK Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, who hosted a reception in honour of the Nigerian leader and his wife, reiterated the strength of the strategic partnership between both countries.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further noted that Tinubu’s trip represents the fifth state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK, and the first in 37 years to receive such recognition from the British Crown.