Nigeria has strengthened its international ties by signing key partnership agreements with the United Kingdom, securing a financial support package worth N589 billion (£272.6 million).
The agreements, which focus on key sectors such as governance, climate change, education, health, and economic development, were signed by Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, and the UK’s Charge d’Affaires, Ms. Cynthia Rowe, in Abuja, Nigeria’s capital.
At the event, Bagudu welcomed the UK delegation and highlighted the significance of the agreements, noting the challenges both nations face due to global economic downturns.
He emphasised that the collaboration demonstrates the UK’s commitment to supporting Nigeria, especially in critical areas that have a global impact, such as health and climate change.
‘Health is no longer a local issue. COVID-19 reminded us that we have a shared universe. Climate is a universal phenomenon. Governance is no longer a local issue. Governance failure
in one country can affect other countries through forced migration, conflict or the spread of arms,’ he said.
The minister also touched on Nigeria’s recent economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, acknowledging the temporary discomfort they have caused, but emphasising their importance for long-term stability and investment growth.
Bagudu said the agreements recognised that despite the best efforts of a country, it might not have all the resources it needed to meet its developmental needs, adding that Nigeria was confident that with working partners, it would overcome its challenges.
The minister thanked the charge d’affaires for her cooperation and assistance in ensuring the consummation of the implementation agreements, which he said were the 15th to be signed by the ministry within a month.
Ms. Rowe expressed the UK’s strong commitment to Nigeria, emphasising the enduring partnership between the two nations.
She acknowledged the recent flooding in some Nigerian states and praised
the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning for its collaborative efforts.
‘I am passionate about the UK’s close relationship with Nigeria and working with the Government to advance the country’s development agenda.
‘The signing of these important agreements today builds on our support worth over £1billion, delivering real improvements for people in health, education, governance, our work with women and girls, and helping where there is humanitarian need,’ she said.
Among the agreements signed is the Human Assistance and Resilience Program (HARP), a £150 million initiative aimed at providing life-saving humanitarian aid in Nigeria’s conflict-affected Northeast.
Other agreements include the Nigeria Governance and Climate Change Programme (NGCP) and the Strengthening Peace and Resilience in Nigeria (SPRING), all designed to promote sustainable development, improve governance, and address climate-related challenges.
These agreements are part of the UK’s long-standing commitment to Nigeria’s development thr
ough the Foreign and Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO), which continues to support a wide range of programs aimed at economic transformation, conflict resolution, and human development.
The partnerships are expected to drive inclusive growth, strengthen governance, and improve the lives of Nigeria’s most vulnerable populations, further solidifying the strong relationship between Nigeria and the UK.
Source: Voice of Nigeria