By Janefrances Chibuzor
The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Nigeria following a high-level visit by the UK Minister for Africa and International Development, Baroness Jenny Chapman, who described the bilateral relationship as “deep, real and moving in the right direction.
“Chapman made the remarks at the conclusion of a two-day visit to Abuja and Kaduna, where she engaged government officials, investors, healthcare workers and local communities benefiting from UK-supported development programmes.
The visit highlighted the expanding scope of the UK–Nigeria Strategic Partnership, covering economic growth, healthcare delivery, digital transformation, trade and investment.In Kaduna, the UK minister met Governor Uba Sani and reviewed more than two decades of collaboration between the UK and Kaduna State.
Discussions focused on investment mobilisation, climate finance opportunities and strengthening support for local economic development.
She also met community animal health workers and livestock breeders to assess UK-backed interventions aimed at improving breeding techniques, livestock vaccines and animal healthcare services.
At the Unguwan Sanusi Primary Health Care Centre in Kaduna South, which serves an estimated 20,000 residents, Chapman interacted with patients and frontline health workers, receiving first-hand accounts of the impact of UK-supported healthcare programmes.
Earlier in Abuja, the minister held talks with the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, on advancing cooperation under the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership (ETIP).
Discussions centred on expanding exports through the Developing Countries Trading Scheme, strengthening fintech collaboration and deepening capital market linkages.
The visit also saw the launch of a new £15 million UK–Nigeria Growth Programme designed to support economic reforms and attract private investment.
Reflecting on the outcomes of the visit, Chapman said every engagement reinforced her confidence in Nigeria’s potential and the strength of the partnership between both countries.
“Nigeria is a partner that the UK is proud to stand alongside,” she said, adding that the UK remains committed to growing together with Nigeria in the years ahead.
The visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations as both countries pursue shared goals in economic development, healthcare, trade and innovation.
