The United Kingdom has described Nigeria’s security situation as worrisome. Addressing journalists in Abuja, the British High Commissioner, Richard Montgomery, attributed the insecurity to regional spillovers from Sudan and Niger. He said the UK was working closely with Nigeria’s Office of the National Security Adviser and investing in security infrastructure to help address the challenge.
Montgomery also raised concerns about visa fraud in Nigeria, linking it to recent spikes in visa rejections. He urged applicants to submit genuine supporting documents, warning that false claims would lead to automatic denials.
Also Read: Civil Society Situation Room Demands Apology From INEC Chairman Over 2023 Polls
On economic relations, the High Commissioner said the UK remains committed to its Enhanced Trade and Investment Partnership with Nigeria, covering key sectors such as education, agriculture, clean energy, financial services, and digital technology. He noted that bilateral trade currently stands at £7.2 billion, with a recent announcement of tariff-free exports on 3,000 Nigerian goods including cocoa, cashew nuts, prawns, and flowers.
Montgomery also addressed rising migration, noting that over 1.6 million people had moved to the UK in the past two years. He said continued high levels of migration were unsustainable, even as Nigerians accounted for over 10 percent of recent visa approvals.
Leave feedback about this
You must be logged in to post a comment.