Tinubu Meets UK PM Keir Starmer, Urges Stronger Nigeria-UK Collaboration
Tinubu, Starmer Meet in London to Deepen Nigeria–UK Ties
March 19, 2026 | News
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday met with United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer in London, reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and economic relations between both countries.
Tinubu, who was received at 10 Downing Street, said the meeting came at a time when global challenges demand stronger international collaboration.
“What we are facing is not a small challenge. Currently, the entire world is challenged. Nigeria is not immune, and neither is Britain,” the President said.
Focus on Economy and Cooperation
Tinubu noted that his administration is focused on improving Nigeria’s economy and the welfare of its citizens, while exploring ways both nations can work together to address shared concerns.
“My concern is the economy, the well-being of our people, and how we can collaborate to improve livelihoods and manage economic volatility,” he said.
He also highlighted challenges such as terrorism and climate change, stressing the need for deeper bilateral engagement to address them.
Starmer: Opportunity to Strengthen Partnership
Speaking earlier, Starmer welcomed Tinubu’s visit, describing it as historic and an opportunity to elevate the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
He emphasised the deep historical and people-to-people ties between both nations and noted that the visit provides a platform to expand cooperation, particularly in trade and exports.
“We already do a lot of work together on the economy, defence, and security, but today is an opportunity to take that to another level, especially with the agreements we’ve reached on exports,” Starmer said.
Key Agreements and State Visit Highlights
One of the major highlights of the visit was the signing of a £746 million financing agreement between Nigeria’s Ministry of Finance, led by Wale Edun, and Citibank.
Tinubu is in the UK on a two-day state visit at the invitation of King Charles III. The visit featured a ceremonial welcome with military honours and a state banquet held at Windsor Castle.
The trip marks Nigeria’s first state visit to the UK in nearly a decade and is expected to further strengthen diplomatic, economic, and strategic cooperation between the two countries.