Tinubu pledges stronger UK ties as British Airways marks 90 years in Nigeria

Business, Politics

ABUJA, Nigeria (NPA) — President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic relations with the United Kingdom, particularly in aviation and other mutually beneficial sectors, as British Airways celebrates 90 years of service to Nigeria.

The President made the pledge on Wednesday during a meeting with a British Airways delegation led by the UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery, and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Mr Colm Lacy, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Tinubu highlighted the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and Britain, recalling his recent visit to the UK and the warm reception he received from King Charles III. He described the milestone as a testament to enduring ties and assured that the relationship would continue to create opportunities for growth, investment, and shared prosperity.

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“We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope to continue enhancing that relationship for a stronger and more rewarding partnership,” Tinubu said. He noted that one of his administration’s early achievements was settling outstanding liabilities owed to foreign airlines, restoring confidence in Nigeria’s aviation sector.

British Airways’ Colm Lacy praised Nigeria as a valued market, stressing that the airline has supported trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange since 1936. He commended Nigerian aviation authorities and the Central Bank for reforms that have strengthened safety and resolved foreign exchange challenges.

Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo added that British Airways now operates new aircraft on the London–Nigeria route and complies with government policy by serving local dishes on outbound flights.

UK High Commissioner Richard Montgomery expressed delight at the 90-year relationship, noting that Tinubu’s recent state visit yielded significant investment agreements, including financing for the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports.

The celebration reinforces the role of aviation in fostering economic and people-to-people connections between Nigeria and the UK, while both sides pledged to build on the historic partnership for future growth.