President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening economic and diplomatic ties with the United Kingdom, particularly in the aviation sector, as British Airways celebrates 90 years of operations in Nigeria.
The President gave the assurance on Wednesday while receiving a delegation from the airline led by the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, and the airline’s Commercial Officer, Colm Lacy, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Tinubu highlighted the longstanding relationship between Nigeria and the UK, describing it as strategic and mutually beneficial. He recalled his recent visit to Britain, where he was received by King Charles III, noting that the engagement further strengthened bilateral cooperation.
According to the President, the partnership between both countries will continue to create opportunities for trade, investment, and shared prosperity. He also acknowledged the role of British Airways in fostering economic and people-to-people connections over the decades.
Tinubu stated that Nigeria is undertaking reforms across its aviation industry and broader economy to align with global standards, enhance connectivity, and promote international partnerships. He added that his administration had prioritised the resolution of outstanding financial obligations to foreign airlines, with the Central Bank of Nigeria playing a key role in clearing liabilities and restoring confidence.
“We celebrate your remarkable 90 years of operation in Nigeria and look forward to deepening this relationship for greater mutual benefit,” the President said.
In his remarks, Lacy traced the airline’s history in Nigeria to 1936, noting that the country remains a key market for British Airways. He said the airline’s operations have supported trade, education, tourism, and business linkages between Nigeria and the UK.
He commended the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, as well as the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority and the Nigerian Airports Authority, for maintaining safety and professionalism in the sector. He also praised the Central Bank of Nigeria for addressing foreign exchange challenges affecting airline operations.
Earlier, Keyamo disclosed that British Airways now deploys newer aircraft on the London–Nigeria route and has complied with the Federal Government’s policy requiring the inclusion of local cuisine on outbound international flights.
Montgomery, on his part, expressed satisfaction with the enduring relationship between Nigeria and British Airways, while also commending Tinubu’s recent state visit to the UK, during which several investment agreements were reached to boost bilateral trade, including support for the rehabilitation of Lagos ports.
The engagement underscored both countries’ commitment to expanding cooperation across aviation and other key sectors of the economy.
