Nigeria to deepen aviation ties with UK

• British Airways celebrates 90 years of Air service to Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to deepening economic relations with the United Kingdom, particularly in the aviation sector and other mutually beneficial areas.

Tinubu gave the assurance when he met with a delegation from British Airways led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Dr Richard Montgomery and the Commercial Officer of British Airways, Mr Colm Lacy, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.”

President Tinubu said, “The transformation and strengthening of our relationship over the past 90 years is a milestone worthy of celebration. And 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. We also hold our relationship with His Majesty the King in high regard. His long-standing commitment to sustainability and to strengthening the Commonwealth, particularly the relationship between Nigeria and Great Britain, must continue to enhance cooperation that aligns with our own national priorities.”

Tinubu also acknowledged the critical role of British Airways in fostering economic and people-to-people connections between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, saying that Nigeria is undergoing reforms to strengthen the economy and state institutions.

“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,” the President added.

The Nigerian President further expressed appreciation to the British Government for the numerous business and investment opportunities extended to Nigeria over the years.

He said, “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.”

The President also informed the visitors that one of the earliest achievements of his administration was settling outstanding liabilities owed by airlines operating in Nigeria.”

In his remarks, Lacy recounted British Airways’ long-standing relationship with Nigeria, noting that the airline has served generations of Nigerians for the past 90 years.

He said, “Our relationship began in 1936 and has journeyed across generations. Nigeria is not simply a destination but a long-standing, most valued market in a country with which we share strong people-to-people, business, educational, and cultural ties.”

Lacy praised the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo,  the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airports Authority for their commitment and professionalism, which, according to him, “has enhanced a credible and safe aviation in Nigeria.”

Keyamo stated that BA now operates brand-new aircraft on the London-Nigeria route, adding that the airline has fully complied with the federal government’s policy to support local caterers by serving local dishes on international outbound flights.

The UK High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mr Richard Montgomery, expressed delight at the 90-year relationship between BA and Nigeria.

Wole Shadare