Tinubu’s historic UK visit delivers £747m Lagos Ports modernisation deal

Europe-Asia, Politics

ABUJA, NIGERIA (NPA) — March 20, 2026 — Nigeria has secured a £747 million agreement with the United Kingdom to refurbish two major ports in Lagos State, marking a significant outcome of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to London. The deal is aimed at boosting trade, strengthening economic relations, and expanding mutually beneficial cooperation between the two nations.

The agreement followed President Tinubu’s meeting with UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer at Downing Street, during what was the first official visit by a Nigerian leader to Britain in nearly four decades. Tinubu described the visit as “very thrilling and significant,” noting that Nigeria is undergoing bold economic reforms and that bilateral discussions would further enhance collaboration.

“Currently, the entire world is challenged, and Nigeria is not immune,” Tinubu said. “My focus is on the economy and the welfare of our people, and on how we can work together to improve livelihoods.”

According to a statement, on Thursday, by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President (Information and Strategy), Prime Minister Starmer hailed the visit as historic and highlighted the importance of the State Banquet hosted by King Charles III in honour of the Nigerian delegation. He reaffirmed the UK’s appreciation of its enduring relationship with Nigeria, particularly the vibrant people-to-people connections that continue to strengthen both societies.

Starmer noted that both countries already enjoy strong collaboration in areas such as the economy, defence, and security. He added that the newly signed agreements on exports and business exchanges reflect a shared determination to deepen cooperation and broaden engagement on global issues.

President Tinubu, accompanied by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, witnessed the formal signing of the £747m agreement for the modernization of infrastructure at the Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos at Lancaster House. 

The deal was signed on behalf of Nigeria by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, while the UK was represented by Blair McDougall MP, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation.