- Tinubu, Starmer Deepen Economic Ties with New Trade Agreements
- Starmer said the new agreements signal a major step forward in the economic relationship between both countries
- Starmer described the visit as historic, noting it is the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years
Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Keir Starmer have agreed to deepen economic ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom, sealing new export agreements during a bilateral meeting in London.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the meeting, held at 10 Downing Street on Thursday, marked a key moment in Tinubu’s historic state visit to Britain, with both leaders expressing commitment to expanding trade and strengthening cooperation.
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Starmer said the new agreements signal a major step forward in the economic relationship between both countries. He noted that while existing partnerships in trade, defence, and security are already strong, there is room to go even further.
Tinubu, on his part, highlighted ongoing economic reforms in Nigeria, describing them as necessary steps to stabilise and grow the country’s economy. He also pointed to broader global challenges affecting both nations, stressing that no country is immune to current economic pressures.
The Nigerian leader linked insecurity in West Africa, particularly terrorism, to climate-related conflicts, noting that the region continues to face complex challenges that require international cooperation.
Both leaders said their discussions focused on improving the economic well-being of their citizens, with an emphasis on building stronger trade relationships and creating more opportunities. Tinubu added that the talks would help accelerate collaboration and strengthen long-standing ties between Nigeria and the UK.
Starmer described the visit as historic, noting it is the first state visit by a Nigerian leader to the UK in 37 years. He also praised the deep people-to-people connections between both countries, which continue to strengthen bilateral relations.
Recent figures show Nigeria has become the UK’s largest export market in Africa as of January 2026, reflecting growing economic engagement. During the visit, both countries also signed several agreements covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
One of the major outcomes is a £746 million financing deal involving UK Export Finance and Nigerian authorities for the rehabilitation of the Lagos Port Complex in Apapa and Tin Can Island Port.
The visit follows a state banquet hosted by King Charles III at Windsor Castle, where he acknowledged the shared history between both nations while commending Nigeria’s progress and the contributions of Nigerians in the UK.
Tinubu’s visit, the first of its kind since 1989, is expected to further strengthen diplomatic and economic ties as both countries look to build a more robust partnership.
