The United Kingdom has described the economic and trade reforms of President Bola Tinubu as bold steps that are opening fresh opportunities for Nigeria’s growth and international partnerships.
British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, made the remarks on Monday during a courtesy visit to the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, at the State House, Abuja.
According to a statement by the First Lady’s media aide, Busola Kukoyi, Montgomery said the UK government recognises the positive impact of Tinubu’s reforms despite short-term challenges. He added that British businesses are already exploring new opportunities in Nigeria.
“The UK has been very public in supporting these brave, bold and difficult reforms. We understand they bring short-term challenges, but we see lots of positivity now in the economy, and our British business colleagues are looking at those opportunities,” Montgomery said.
The envoy also praised Senator Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) as an effective platform for empowering women in education, health and humanitarian services. He further expressed interest in Nigeria’s constitutional amendment process, particularly the Special Seats Bill aimed at increasing female representation in the National Assembly.
Responding, the First Lady assured the delegation that her office and the RHI would continue to tackle challenges faced by women, especially in the informal sector. She acknowledged the decline in female representation in parliament and pledged to support efforts to reverse the trend.
“We have to really know the right people to represent us, who can really do the work, and that is what we have to enlighten our women about,” Mrs Tinubu said.
The visit was also attended by the British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever.
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