Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has declared that the country is turning a corner economically, assuring citizens at home and abroad that Nigeria has moved beyond a period of uncertainty and is now on the path to growth and renewed optimism.
Speaking at a high-level reception in London, the President said the Nigerian economy had “navigated its way out of the dark tunnel of economic uncertainty and hopelessness,” adding that the country is entering a brighter phase aligned with the aspirations of its people.
Tinubu cautioned against undue focus on negative economic indicators, which he said are often amplified by critics. Instead, he expressed confidence in the resilience and capability of Nigerians to succeed globally, noting their consistent achievements across sectors.
The event, hosted by the United Kingdom’s Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, underscored the enduring relationship between Nigeria and the UK. Lammy welcomed President Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, highlighting the strength of bilateral ties built on mutual respect and cooperation.
He revealed that annual trade between both nations has reached £8.1 billion, while over 500,000 Nigerians continue to play significant roles in the UK’s cultural and economic landscape. Lammy also praised Nigeria’s global cultural footprint, particularly in art and entertainment, describing it as a key pillar of the country’s soft power.
According to him, the UK-Nigeria partnership remains forward-looking, driven by ongoing trade and investment discussions aimed at deepening economic collaboration.
Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, who moderated the event, spotlighted the growing influence of Nigerians occupying strategic positions across the United Kingdom.
The reception drew a strong delegation from Nigeria, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, alongside several cabinet members.
Among them were Minister of Arts, Culture and the Creative Economy Hannatu Musawa; Attorney General and Minister of Justice Lateef Fagbemi; Minister of Defence Christopher Musa; and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Others in attendance included Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy Wale Edun; Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Jumoke Oduwole; Minister of Education Tunji Alausa; Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu; National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu; and Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency Mohammed Mohammed.
