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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu has pledged to deepen economic relations with the United Kingdom, especially in aviation, as British Airways celebrated 90 years of air service to Nigeria.
Speaking at the Presidential Villa in Abuja during a meeting with a British Airways delegation led by UK High Commissioner Richard Montgomery and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, President Tinubu highlighted the longstanding partnership between Nigeria and Britain.
“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, reminiscing about his recent UK visit. “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.”
Tinubu stressed Nigeria’s respect for King Charles III’s commitment to sustainability and the Commonwealth, assuring continued cooperation aligned with national priorities. “We celebrate with you your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria, and we hope we will continue to enhance and encourage that relationship for a stronger and more rewarding partnership,” he added.
The president noted ongoing reforms in Nigeria’s aviation sector and economy to meet global standards, crediting his administration’s early settlement of airline liabilities via the Central Bank of Nigeria.
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“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 stated.
Colm Lacy recounted British Airways’ history with Nigeria since 1936, calling it a “long-standing, most valued market.” “Every day our services support Nigerian entrepreneurs, students, families and tourists connecting from Nigeria to the United Kingdom and all over the world, helping in trade, investment and opportunities in both directions,” Lacy said.
He praised Aviation Minister Festus Keyamo, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority, and Airports Authority for fostering safe aviation, and commended the Central Bank for resolving foreign exchange issues to restore foreign airlines’ confidence.
Keyamo informed the gathering that British Airways now flies brand-new aircraft on the London-Nigeria route and complies with policies supporting local caterers by serving Nigerian dishes outbound.
High Commissioner Montgomery expressed delight at the milestone and thanked Tinubu for his UK state visit, which yielded major deals. “I know that their Majesties, the King and the Queen, were delighted with the visit. And I hope that your excellency and your team feel satisfied about the substance… some very big investment deals were agreed, including the rehabilitation of Lagos Ports, which we are delighted to support with financing and UK content,” he said.
