President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening economic and aviation ties with the United Kingdom, saying his administration is focused on reforms that will improve international partnerships and boost global confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.
Tinubu gave the assurance on Wednesday when he received a delegation from British Airways at the Presidential Villa, Abuja. The delegation was led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Mr Colm Lacy.
The meeting was part of ongoing diplomatic and business engagements between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, two countries with long-standing historical, political, and economic relations dating back to colonial times and continuing strongly after independence.
In a statement issued by the Presidency and signed by the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu said the relationship between both countries had lasted nearly a century and must continue to grow stronger.
He described the partnership as one built on shared history and mutual respect, noting that the last 90 years of cooperation between Nigeria and British Airways was a milestone worth celebrating.
“It is a very great joy to share with you this afternoon. The transformation and strengthening of our relationship over the past 90 years is a milestone worthy of celebration,” the President said.
Tinubu also recalled his recent visit to the United Kingdom, where he met King Charles III. He said the reception he received during the visit remained a memorable experience.
“I still relish the memory of my last visit to Great Britain and the wonderful reception I received from His Majesty King Charles III. I will forever cherish that memory,” he added.
The President stressed that his administration is committed to deepening bilateral cooperation with the United Kingdom, especially in areas that promote trade, investment, and people-to-people connections.
He noted that Nigeria’s ongoing economic and aviation reforms are aimed at aligning with global standards and improving efficiency in key sectors.
According to him, “Nigeria is still going through the reforms and transformation of our aviation industry and every aspect of our economy. We must meet global standards and encourage people-to-people connections while promoting the essence of trade and partnership in this sector.”
Tinubu said the government is also working to resolve long-standing financial challenges affecting foreign airlines operating in Nigeria. He explained that efforts are being made by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to clear outstanding obligations and improve the business environment.
“You’ve seen that since I assumed office, the outstanding liabilities and other hiccups that are hindrances to our relationship are being resolved by the Central Bank of Nigeria, and we hope to strengthen all of that,” he said.
The aviation sector has remained a key area of focus for Nigeria’s economic reforms. Over the years, foreign airlines have raised concerns about currency repatriation, operational costs, and regulatory issues. The government has recently taken steps to address some of these challenges in order to attract more investment and improve air travel services.
British Airways, which first began operations in Nigeria in 1936, is one of the oldest international airlines serving the country. It has maintained a strong presence on the London–Lagos and London–Abuja routes, serving thousands of passengers yearly.
During the meeting, Mr Colm Lacy described Nigeria as a very important market for the airline, noting that the relationship between both sides has grown steadily over the decades.
“Our relationship began in 1936 and has journeyed across generations. Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market,” he said.
Lacy added that British Airways operations in Nigeria support a wide range of travellers, including business people, students, families, and tourists. According to him, this connectivity plays an important role in strengthening trade, investment, and cultural exchange between both countries.
“Every day our services support Nigerian entrepreneurs, students, families and tourists… helping in trade, investment and opportunities in both directions,” he said.
He also commended Nigerian aviation authorities and the Central Bank of Nigeria for recent improvements in the operating environment for foreign airlines. These, he said, have helped to stabilise operations and strengthen confidence in the market.
Nigeria’s Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, who also spoke at the event, said British Airways has complied with local aviation policies, including the use of new aircraft on its Nigeria routes and participation in government guidelines on catering for outbound international flights.
He noted that such cooperation reflects growing trust between Nigeria and international aviation partners.
Also speaking, Dr Montgomery expressed satisfaction with the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He said recent high-level engagements between both countries had led to important agreements, including investment discussions.
“I know that their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit… some very big investment deals were agreed, including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports,” he said.
The Lagos Ports project is seen as a key infrastructure development that could improve Nigeria’s maritime trade capacity and ease cargo movement in and out of the country.
Nigeria and the UK share one of the strongest bilateral relationships in Africa, covering areas such as education, security, trade, and migration. The aviation sector remains a critical link in sustaining this partnership.
As discussions continue, both countries are expected to explore more areas of cooperation aimed at improving air travel, boosting investment, and strengthening economic ties.