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ABUJA – The trade in goods and services between Nigeria and the United Kingdom surged to £7.2 billion in 2024. Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, shared this significant Nigeria-UK trade volume update.
Kalu made the announcement while warmly hosting a parliamentary delegation from the United Kingdom. The delegation was led by Lord Collins, the UK’s Under Secretary of State (Africa) for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs. Kalu stated, “Total trade in goods and services between the UK and Nigeria amounted to £7.2bn in the four quarters leading to the end of Q4 2024.”
Call for Enhanced UK Partnership
Deputy Speaker Kalu made a strong call for an even better partnership between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. He specifically identified key areas for this enhanced UK partnership. These include bolstering democratic institutions, expanding trade cooperation, and improving the welfare of citizens in both nations.
He emphasized the substantial mutual benefits available. Kalu pointed to the existing Nigeria-UK Strategic Partnership and various agreements signed in 2024 as strong foundations. He also highlighted the vital role of parliamentary contacts in reinforcing the bilateral relationship. Kalu affirmed, “This relationship will be better strengthened through parliamentary contacts.”
Deepening UK Nigeria Cooperation for Mutual Growth
The Deputy Speaker also outlined several areas ripe for mutual UK-Nigeria cooperation. These important sectors include governance, climate change initiatives, education, health, and broad economic development. He noted that the Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership, signed in February 2024, is already making strides in strengthening ties.
Lord Collins, on behalf of the UK, expressed a strong readiness to partner with Nigeria in all areas of shared interest. “We are committed to building partnerships for economic growth rooted in mutual benefit and increased welfare for our people,” Lord Collins declared.
The productive meeting between Deputy Speaker Kalu and the UK delegation concluded with a closed-door session. This allowed for a more detailed discussion on furthering the strategic partnership.
By Abdullah Korede
