Nigeria and the United Kingdom have signed a series of new agreements covering port modernisation, migration, border security and business mobility as part of efforts to deepen economic and security cooperation .
At the centre of the deals is a £746 million infrastructure agreement to upgrade Apapa and Tin Can Island ports in Lagos, Nigeria’s busiest seaports, which was signed at Lancaster House in London .
Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun signed on behalf of Nigeria, while UK Minister for Small Business and Economic Transformation Blair McDougall signed for the British government .
Edun said the port deal aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s priorities on infrastructure, energy and industrial development under the Renewed Hope Agenda and will help attract investment, create jobs and reduce poverty .
He noted that the agreement reflects growing confidence and mutual trust between both countries and a shared commitment to delivering tangible economic results .
Nigeria and the UK also concluded three key documents on migration and security: a Migration Partnership, Cooperation on Organised Immigration Crime and Border Security, and an agreement on the expansion of business visas for UK companies working with Nigeria .
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji Ojo signed the migration related agreements for Nigeria, describing them as proof of a shared determination to build a safe, orderly and mutually beneficial migration system .
He said Nigeria is committed to a framework that protects its national interests, respects international obligations and tackles abuses of legal migration paths and related criminal activities .
Tunji Ojo said the expanded business visa arrangement will support economic growth, adding that visa policy reforms under the Tinubu administration are being designed as tools to drive trade and broader socio economic development .
He stressed that Nigeria’s ambition to build a trillion dollar economy requires removing barriers to trade, including bottlenecks linked to irregular migration, and pledged that the government will work quickly to implement the new understandings .
UK Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood described the package of agreements as unprecedented in scope and said Nigeria is the first country to conclude such an extensive framework with the UK, underlining its importance in British foreign policy .
She said both countries share a clear vision of what they can achieve together and that the new arrangements will strengthen cooperation on migration management and security .
UK Trade Envoy Florence Eshalomi said the expanded business visa deal offers clear mutual benefits and is a bold step toward stronger growth, especially for Nigeria as one of Africa’s largest economies .
President Tinubu, whose state visit to the UK is the first by a Nigerian leader in 37 years, said the trip provides a fresh platform to deepen long standing ties and build on the institutional development Nigeria has enjoyed over time .
He called for stronger trade agreements and closer economic collaboration, emphasising that Nigeria and Britain can unlock more opportunities by working together .
On the sidelines, National Identity Management Commission Director General Abisoye Coker Odusote said NIMC will expand National Identification Number enrolment centres and improve services for Nigerians in the UK to help them access key services and connect with Nigeria’s digital economy .
She added that NIMC is also intensifying ward level enrolment within Nigeria to reach rural and underserved communities, in line with the federal government’s goal of using digital identity to support growth, social protection and better governance .
About the author
Trump calls on Japan and NATO to step up on Iran as Hormuz crisis lifts oil prices
President Donald Trump has pressed Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and NATO allies to “step up” support for the US led war with Iran as surging oil prices hit the global economy . At a White House meeting, Trump praised Takaichi but urged Japan to do more to help secure the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran’s actions have severely disrupted tanker traffic and driven energy prices higher . He said Washington does not “need anything” from allies but argued it is appropriate for partners like Japan and NATO members to contribute more ships to clear mines and escort tankers through the strategic waterway . Trump defended keeping allies in the dark about his Iran plans by invoking Japan’s 1941 surprise attack on Pearl Harbor, telling a Japanese reporter, “We wanted surprise. Who knows better about surprise than Japan? Why didn’t […]
2Baba, Shalipopi, Young Jonn, Phyno, Flavour to thrill fans at Big Fiesta in 12 Nigerian cities this Easter
A star studded lineup led by 2Baba, Shalipopi, Young Jonn, Phyno and Flavour will entertain fans at the first edition of Big Fiesta holding in 12 cities across Nigeria during the Easter weekend from April 3 to April 6, 2026 . Marketing Director of Nigerian Breweries, Sarah Agha, said Big Fiesta was created on the back of the successful “A Legendary Christmas” campaign, which showcased flagship brands such as Heineken, Maltina and Goldberg nationwide . She explained that the new platform is designed to go beyond December festivities by creating rich entertainment experiences for fun seekers and consumers in multiple locations as they mark the end of Ramadan, Lent and the Easter celebrations . According to Agha, a total of 36 experience driven events have been scheduled under the Big Fiesta umbrella to spread joy, share happiness and support jobs […]
50 countries to pay homage to Lisabi and Alake at Egbaliganza 2026
At least 50 countries will participate in this year’s Egbaliganza, a flagship cultural programme of the Lisabi Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, paying homage to legendary Egba hero Lisabi and the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo. Convener of Egbaliganza, Aare Dr Lai Labode, said the March 28, 2026 event will turn Abeokuta into a cultural capital, showcasing the weight of Egba history, craftsmanship, language and identity on a global stage. He announced a packed programme for the day, starting with a Parade of Nations where delegations from over 50 countries will display their distinct cultures alongside the Egba people on a shared platform. A formal charter signing will accompany the parade to establish long term cooperation between participating nations and the Egbaliganza platform in culture, tourism and creative enterprise. Other highlights include the Walk of Heroes and Walk […]
Wale Adenuga sets record straight on Abiodun Ayoyinka Papa Ajasco claims
Veteran producer Wale Adenuga has responded to recent comments by actor Abiodun Ayoyinka, best known for playing Papa Ajasco, saying the viral video reflects the comedian’s personal strategy but has created misconceptions about their long working relationship . Adenuga said his first reaction on seeing the trending clip was that Ayoyinka had taken the Papa Ajasco comedy character into the public space as a money making social media strategy and that he was happy it worked for him . He described Ayoyinka as a versatile actor who embodied the Papa Ajasco role excellently and most closely resembled the cartoon character he first sketched in 1976, adding that they remain close and have no irreconcilable differences . However, he expressed concern over what he called misinformation and emotional commentary that followed the interview, insisting he needed to set the record straight […]
Femi Abiodun inspires young leaders with new book From Classroom to Boardroom
UK based Nigerian life coach and author Femi Abiodun has released a new book titled From Classroom to Boardroom aimed at helping young graduates navigate life after school, especially in business and career choices . He says life after graduation can feel overwhelming without guidance, but that walking with wisdom from those who have gone ahead makes the journey clearer, lighter and more intentional . Abiodun explains that the book shares timeless, practical principles that many schools never teach, to help readers stand out, thrive and succeed in real life beyond the classroom . He notes that life will always test people, but those who build the right capacity, stay grounded in sound principles and keep their heads up can rise above challenges and make steady progress . According to him, what people do not prepare for, they often have […]
Osimhen risks six week layoff after fracturing forearm in Liverpool defeat
Galatasaray striker Victor Osimhen could be sidelined for up to six weeks after suffering a fractured right forearm in Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League defeat to Liverpool at Anfield. The Super Eagles star was forced off at halftime as the Turkish champions lost 4 0 on the night and 4 1 on aggregate, crashing out of the competition in the round of 16. In a statement, Galatasaray confirmed that Osimhen’s injured arm has been placed in a cast and said the medical team is still weighing whether he will need surgery. A final decision will be taken after further examinations when the 27 year old returns from a short break granted during the international window. Osimhen is currently in Lagos, where he has been seen on social media driving around in his luxury cars while enjoying some days off before flying […]
Related
Tinubu Akpabio Abbas urge peace unity as Muslims celebrate Eid el Fitri
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Nigerians, especially Muslims, to pray for peace, unity and prosperity as they celebrate Eid el Fitri marking the end of Ramadan . In a message issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the president congratulated the Muslim faithful on completing the month long fast and called for deep reflection on the spiritual lessons of the season . He highlighted the values of piety, sacrifice, empathy, selflessness and compassion, saying these virtues are essential for building a stronger and more united Nigeria . Tinubu appealed to Islamic clerics and leaders to intensify prayers for the country at this critical time and asked Muslims to extend kindness and generosity to the less privileged, regardless of religion or ethnicity . He stressed that Eid el Fitri is not just a time for celebration […]
Crude hits 114 as fears grow over fresh petrol price hikes in Nigeria
There are fresh concerns that petrol prices in Nigeria could rise further after Brent crude oil jumped to about 114 dollars per barrel following a sharp escalation in the United States and Israel war on Iran . Petrol is already selling for between N1,200 and N1,400 per litre in parts of the country, up from around N730 to N880 per litre before the conflict began on February 28 . Global prices surged after Israel struck Iran’s South Pars gas field, the world’s largest gas deposit, prompting Iranian missile and drone attacks on energy facilities in Qatar and Saudi Arabia and triggering fears of wider disruption to supplies . Brent crude rose by about 6.24 percent to 114.08 dollars per barrel, its highest level since May 2022, while US West Texas Intermediate crude climbed to around 96.33 dollars per barrel . […]
Sultan declares Friday Eid il Fitr after non sighting of Shawwal moon
The Sultan of Sokoto and President General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, has declared tomorrow as Eid il Fitr . The announcement followed the non sighting of the Shawwal moon across Nigeria on Wednesday night . According to the Sultan’s media team, the declaration was contained in a statement issued by Prof Sambo Wali Junaidu, Wazirin Sokoto and Chairman of the Sultanate Council Advisory Committee on Religious Affairs, in conjunction with the National Moon Sighting Committee . The statement confirmed that no verified reports of the Shawwal crescent were received from moon sighting committees nationwide, meaning Muslims must complete 30 days of fasting for Ramadan 1447AH . It explained that, in line with Qur’an and Hadith, when the new moon is not seen on the 29th day of a lunar month, Muslims are […]
Cardoso says Nigerian economy now stronger against global shocks
Nigeria’s economy is now stronger and better positioned to withstand global economic shocks, according to Central Bank of Nigeria Governor Olayemi Cardoso . Speaking at the Africa Capital Forum in London on the sidelines of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s state visit to the United Kingdom, Cardoso said the financial system is being strengthened through disciplined monetary policies and institutional reforms . He explained that the CBN is reviewing its policy framework to make decisions more predictable and reduce uncertainty for investors, with the goal of developing clear, consistent and meaningful policies rather than relying on discretion . Cardoso disclosed that the apex bank has completed work on a new Payments System Vision for Nigeria, which will soon be launched to position the country as a major player in digital payments and cross border transactions across Africa . On the foreign […]
Nigeria spends N32.8trn on defence in 15 years as insecurity persists
Nigeria has spent about N32.88 trillion on defence in the last 15 years, roughly 12.5 percent of total national budgets of N262.834 trillion over the period, yet insecurity remains widespread across the country . Based on official budget exchange rates, the N32.88 trillion translates to about 44.64 billion dollars, but communities across several regions still face insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, communal clashes and oil related violence . Security trackers estimate that more than 100,000 Nigerians have been killed in violent incidents and conflict related attacks since 2012, with thousands abducted and millions displaced from their homes . In 2026 alone, at least 1,091 people were reported killed in violent attacks in the first 41 days of the year, while about 3.726 million Nigerians are currently displaced and living in roughly 3,900 camps nationwide . The recent suicide bombings in Maiduguri, Borno […]
Pomp and splendour as King Charles hosts Tinubu and wife at historic UK state visit
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu were hosted with pomp and splendour by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Windsor Castle, marking the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the United Kingdom in 37 years . Military President Ibrahim Babangida was the last Nigerian leader to pay a state visit in 1989, following earlier state visits by former President Shehu Shagari in 1981 and General Yakubu Gowon, all of whom were hosted by the late Queen Elizabeth II . Tinubu and his wife were received by senior royals, including Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, before being escorted to meet the King and Queen for the formal welcome . Because the visit coincides with Ramadan, there was no traditional lunch with the King, but the President and First Lady were still treated to […]
Be the first to leave a comment