The United Kingdom has expressed concern over Nigeria’s deteriorating security situation, describing it as “worrisome.”
This is coming amidst an upsurge of violent attacks in Plateau, Benue, Borno states by bandits.
Speaking to journalists at his Abuja residence on Wednesday, the British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, attributed the instability to regional spillovers from neighbouring countries such as Sudan and Niger.
He noted that the UK government is actively working with Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser and investing in security infrastructure to help mitigate the challenges.
Montgomery also raised alarms over increasing incidents of visa fraud, linking them to a recent surge in visa rejections. He advised prospective visa applicants to ensure that they submit accurate and complete documentation to improve their chances of approval.
Despite the concerns, the UK reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening economic and trade relations with Nigeria through the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP). The partnership aims to boost cooperation in key sectors such as education, agriculture, financial services, clean energy, digital technology and the creative industry.
The envoy welcomed the latest World Bank report, which projects Nigeria as being on a path toward economic recovery—an outlook that he said reinforces its potential as a strong investment destination for the UK. He revealed that trade between the two countries currently stands at £7.2 billion.
While praising the progress in bilateral trade, Montgomery acknowledged a decline in the UK’s hydrocarbon exports to Nigeria, attributing it to increased local production—a development he described as positive.
In a move to support Nigerian exports, the UK announced tariff-free access for 3,000 products, including cocoa, cashew nuts, prawns, and flowers.
Addressing questions on the rising migration of skilled health workers to the UK, Montgomery said the British government is working to manage immigration levels, citing that over 1.6 million people had migrated to the UK in the past two years.
He emphasised that such a high level of migration is unsustainable in the long term. Still, he noted that Nigerians account for over 10 per cent of recent UK visa approvals, reflecting the strength of bilateral ties. (Daily trust)
